Substance abuse nursing/AA Flashcards
(26 cards)
What is addiction?
Not having control overdoing, taking or using something to the point where it could be harmful to you
The person seeks pleasure or emotion from the substance or activity and is unable to regulate the use or activity
What is substance addiction?
Substance addiction means that substance use is continuous, repeated and compulsive, despite the potential harm to health.
Addiction can be physiological or psychological. Often it is both.
What is physiological dependence?
In physiological dependence, the tolerance of the substance is heightened and withdrawal symptoms occur when the substance is discontinued.
What is psychological dependence?
Psychological dependence, focuses on the desired psychological effects of the drug, such as euphoria, sensory stimulation and relief from unpleasant feelings such as anxiety and shame.
Substance use can lead to a vicious circle Noidankehä
When do withdraw symptoms occur?
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms occur within 24-150 hours (peak70-100 hours) after prolonged cessation of alcohol consumption.
What do mild withdraw symptoms include?
Mild withdrawal symptoms include tremor, restlessness, sweating, insomnia and irritability, and often occur at the onset of drowsiness.
What is delirium tremens?
Delirium tremens is a severe withdrawal syndrome that occurs between 24 and 150 hours after stopping alcohol consumption.
What are the symptoms of delirium tremens?
Its symptoms include autonomic and psychomotor hyperactivity (sweating, tachycardia, tremor, agitation), speech difficulties, disorientation and hallucinations. The condition may be life threatening.
What can excessive alcohol consumption cause?
- Anxiety /ahdistus
- Restlessness / Levottomuus
- Tension and panic / jännittyneisyys ja paniikki
- sleep difficulties / univaikeuksia
- low mood / alakuloista mielialaa
and in the worst cases, psychotic symptoms such as delusional thoughts, paranoia, or hallucinations
What are the harms caused by alcohol to others?
What are the risk levels for alcohol consumption?
Women, Low risk: 1 drink / day
Moderate risk: continuously more than 7 drinks / week
High risk: 12-16 or more / week
Men, Low risk: 2 drinks / day
Moderate risk: continuously more than 14 / week
High risk: 23 – 24 or more / week
What is the classification of alcohol abuse?
Alcohol abuse can be classified based on risk levels.
What does a low risk level indicate?
A person can reduce alcohol consumption if they want.
What are the potential risks at a high-risk level?
High-risk level indicates obvious problems with physical and mental health. A person can reduce alcohol consumption in order to improve health or reduce health risks.
What is alcohol dependence?
Alcohol dependence is also known as alcoholism (F10.2 alkoholiriippuvuus). Search for actual definition.
What are the characteristics/signs of alcohol dependence?
- Compulsive drinking
- High tolerance for alcohol
- Drinking despite the harm it causes
- Concentrating on drinking
- Alcohol withdrawal syndrome
What is alcohol withdrawal syndrome?
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome occurs when a person reduces or stops drinking after heavy use.
What should you pay attention to about a patient?
- hangover or is drunk
- stomach / bowel problems
- accidents or injury
- liver disease
- depression
- eczema
- poor dental hygiene
Why can it be difficult for a patient to talk about alcohol use?
Fear of judgment – Worry that the nurse or doctor will think poorly of them.
Shame or guilt – Feelings of embarrassment about their drinking habits.
Stigma – Concern about being labeled as an “alcoholic” or having a problem.
Denial or minimization – Not recognizing or admitting that their drinking is risky.
Privacy concerns – Fear that their alcohol use will be shared with others (e.g., family, employer).
Cultural or religious beliefs – May feel conflicted or embarrassed due to cultural norms.
Fear of consequences – Worry that admitting alcohol use could lead to unwanted action (e.g., being reported, losing custody, losing driving privileges).
Lack of trust – If they don’t feel safe or supported, they may hold back.
What should you pay attention to ask a patient when dealing with alcoholism?
- high blood pressure
- irregular heartbeat
- sleeping problems / insomnia
- metabolic syndrome anxiety
- change in social situation
Why can it be difficult for a nurse to ask about alcohol use?
Fear of damaging rapport – Worry about offending the patient or losing trust.
Stigma and sensitivity – Alcohol use can be a sensitive or shameful topic.
Personal discomfort – Nurse may feel awkward or unsure how to ask.
Lack of training or confidence – Uncertainty about what to ask or how to respond.
Time constraints – Busy environments may limit time for lifestyle questions.
Fear of consequences – Concern about how to manage a positive disclosure.
Cultural or social differences – Differing views on alcohol can create discomfort.
What questionnaires can be used to help check for alcohol dependance?
AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test) , SADD (Short Alcohol Dependence Data Questionnaire).
What is the diagnostic criteria for substance use disorder?
The presence of three or more of the following symptoms for at least one month or repeatedly over 12 month period:
- Intense cravings or compulsive desire to use the substance - Reduced ability to control the initiation, amount, or cessation of substance use - Withdrawal symptoms when substance use decreases or stops. - Lide focusing around substance use - Continuing the use despite the harmful consequences.
