Competency-based approaches to sexualized substance use: Addressing curriculum gaps in nurse practitioner education

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Public Health
• LGBTQ+ Health

Background:

• Chemsex and party-and-play (PnP) among men who have sex with men (MSM) are linked to increased risks of STIs, HIV, substance dependence, trauma, and mental health issues.
• Despite these risks, PnP is largely absent from US nurse practitioner (NP) education, creating a gap in essential clinical competencies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the deficit in NP education regarding PnP and its associated health risks.
• To propose a competency-based educational model for NPs to effectively manage PnP-related health concerns.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive review of 21 studies integrating evidence on PnP-related harm with NP curriculum deficiencies.
• Development of recommendations for a competency-based educational model.

Main Results:

• PnP participation is associated with elevated risks for STIs, HIV, substance use disorders, and mental health conditions among MSM.
• Current NP curricula inadequately prepare graduates to address the complex health needs of individuals engaging in PnP.

Conclusions:

• There is an urgent need to integrate PnP-specific competencies into NP education, including trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and culturally responsive communication.
• Implementing a competency-based educational model will enhance NPs' ability to provide effective care, improve clinical outcomes, and promote health equity for LGBTQ+ communities.