Substance Use Risk in Student Nurse Anesthetists

Student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs) are more likely to experience stress due to the transitions of returning to school, interrupting successful careers, and heightened strain on personal relationships. Evidence supports that SRNAs are at risk for substance use disorders (SUDs); however, few investigations have assessed substance use (SU) data reported by SRNAs.

The aim of this study was to report risk scores and predictors of risk scores for tobacco, alcohol, and other SUDs. Using an online survey through the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiologists Research Survey Services, approximately 3,000 SRNAs were sent a link to the survey in late February/early March 2021. The survey included several validated scales, such as the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test, self-reports of SU, and psychological variables, such as depression and anxiety. Approximately 400 SRNAs responded (13% response rate).

The SRNAs' highest risk scores were found to be tobacco (moderate risk: 7.36%; high risk: 0.48%); alcohol (moderate risk: 19.95%; high risk: 2.22%), and cannabis (moderate risk: 9.79%; high risk: 0%). For predictors of SRNA alcohol risk, a multiple linear regression model (R2 = 0.11) revealed a combination of variables: gender, religiosity, past injury or health condition, SU history, past medical errors, and anxiety.

SRNAs' risk for alcohol use was the highest of reported substances with over 22% reporting moderate to high risk for developing alcohol use disorder. Continued efforts to address underlying psychological influences that may affect alcohol use, such as anxiety, should be reinforced in certified registered nurse anesthetist programs.