Nursing interventions for addicted patient. Strategies for intervention.
The intervention process is a powerful tool in helping those affected by chemical dependency. Intervention presents reality in a manner that penetrates the maladaptive defense mechanisms that have developed around this illness, both in the person who is thought to be chemically dependent and in those significant in his or her life. The process begins with the nurse assessing the extent of the problem and the likelihood that chemical dependency is the cause, or at least the primary factor. The nurse assists in identifying the persons to be involved in the intervention and the ability of the individuals and the group to carry out the intervention process. Education and preparation of the group are the next steps. Once the group is adequately prepared, the intervention is implemented. Throughout the process, the nurse is cautioned to remember (1) the patient/client is the person seeking assistance, not the person thought to be chemically dependent, and (2) he or she is a facilitator, not an intervener. Follow-up to the actual intervention is also important, ensuring the evaluation is completed, encouraging the individuals in the group to follow through with the prepared plans, and assisting them in dealing with the feelings they experience as a result of the intervention. Nurses often function as intervention facilitators. Because intervention is so powerful, preparation as a facilitator requires sound knowledge of the illness and the process and supervised clinical experience.
Williams
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Professional Advisory Services, Inc, Mission, Kansas.
D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D006127:Group Structure; D006801:Humans; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D011615:Psychotherapy, Group / Q000379:methods*; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology*