Indian nurses' attitudes toward patients with substance use problems: A cross-sectional study

Substance abuse is a significant public health concern in India, often leading to social stigma, poor support for treatment, difficulties in interpersonal relationships, challenges in securing employment, and strained family dynamics.

To investigate the factors influencing nurses' attitudes toward patients with substance use disorders.

This cross-sectional quantitative study recruited 272 participants through a total enumeration sampling technique, including registered nurses working in a Tertiary Hospital, who met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected using the Brief Substance Abuse Attitude Survey (BSAAS), and appropriate statistical tests were applied.

The study reported a mean BSAAS score of 77.15 ± 17.07, indicating predominantly positive attitudes. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between age and attitude scores (r = -0.05, P ≤ 0.05), suggesting that older nurses had slightly less positive attitudes. Similarly, greater work experience (r = -0.05, P ≤ 0.05) was associated with lower attitude scores. In-service and continuing education showed a weak positive correlation (r = 0.02, P ≤ 0.05), indicating minimal impact.

Indian nurses generally exhibited a moderately positive attitude toward patients with substance use disorders. Regular sensitization through targeted training programs is recommended to enhance nurses' attitudes.