Changes in general nurses' knowledge of alcohol and substance use and misuse after education.
OBJECTIVE
This study aims to assess the impact of an education program on Australian general nurses' knowledge and competence in identifying and managing patients with alcohol and substance use and misuse, and compare findings with existing literature on mental health nurses.


METHODS
Pre- and posttest design without a control group.


RESULTS
The nurses' knowledge of safe drinking limits and alcohol withdrawal management improved following the education. Nevertheless, overall the nurses reported a lack of adequate knowledge and competence. Compared to mental health nurses, the nurses in this study had lower levels of knowledge and competence.


CONCLUSIONS
We suggest several opportunities for general nurses to strengthen their knowledge and skills and the need for a comprehensive and regular education program.
Centre for Applied Nursing Research, University of Western Sydney, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia. danielle.tran@sswahs.nsw.gov.au
Duong Thuy
DT
Tran
Andrea M
AM
Stone
Ritin S
RS
Fernandez
Rhonda D
RD
Griffiths
Maree
M
Johnson
D000328:Adult; D000430:Alcohol Withdrawal Delirium / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000451:nursing* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D000437:Alcoholism / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000451:nursing* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003479:Curriculum; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009517:New South Wales; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education*; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000451:nursing* / Q000534:rehabilitation