Addiction for Nurses is a comprehensive textbook for students, explaining the role of the nurse at each stage of intervention. Early chapters approach the subject from sociological, historical, and cultural perspectives, covering significant topics such as the nature of addiction, its social context, and addiction theory. The book then presents vital information about each of the main areas of addiction (nicotine, alcohol, opiates, cannabis, psychostimulants, and hallucinogens) with clinical and practical guidance on recognition, assessment, and treatment intervention strategies. Further chapters consider dealing with emergencies, blood-borne viruses, harm reduction, and work with specific client groups (for instance, black and ethnic minority communities, or those with special needs).
This book is an essential resource for all those who come into contact with alcohol and drug misusers and for specialist addiction nurses preparing for practice in this complex and rewarding field.