Substance Use Disorder

NCSBN’s Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Initiative responds to the complex disease of SUD and the nationwide opioid epidemic. The NCSBN initiative includes free educational materials and resources for providers who prescribe opioids. 

Substance Use Disorder encompasses a pattern of behaviors that range from misuse to dependency or addiction, whether it is alcohol, legal drugs or illegal drugs. Opioid use has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. Currently, more people die from fatal drug overdoses than motor vehicles.

Substance Use Disorder can affect anyone regardless of age, occupation, economic circumstances, ethnic background or gender. It is a progressive and chronic disease, but also one that can be successfully treated. However, published best medical practices cannot alone combat the Substance Use Disorder or the opioid public health epidemic. Only a multifaceted approach, including prescribers, regulatory authorities, pharmaceutical companies, employers, legislators, law enforcement, and the federal government has a chance at turning the tide of Substance Use Disorder and the opioid-related morbidity and mortality.

The current multifaceted approach to opioid misuse includes initiatives by the U.S. Surgeon General, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control, the White House, various health care groups, and individual states. The American Public Health Association (APHA) called for action to reduce opioid abuse via the implementation of evidence-based provider training programs. NCSBN responded to the APHA call to action through an initiative to educate nurses and the public about substance use by removing the cost to NCSBN’s two Substance Use Disorder Continuing Education courses. As well, all Substance Use Disorder resources (brochures and posters) can be ordered at no cost. NCSBN's Substance Use Disorder in Nursing video tackles one of the most serious problems facing nursing today. This video provides a comprehensive look at the issue of substance use disorder. NCSBN also provides an Opioid Toolkit, which holds various guidelines, professional education, and resources available to practitioners regarding opioid prescribing.