Authors

  1. Gonzalez, Yovan DNP, RN, FNP-BC
  2. Kozachik, Sharon L. PhD, RN, FAAN
  3. Finnell, Deborah S. DNS, RN, CARN-AP, FAAN

Abstract

Background: Screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) for substance use has an impact on morbidity and mortality and health care cost.

 

Local Problem: Nurses in ambulatory care settings may lack knowledge about evidence-based substance use SBIRT.

 

Methods: A comparison of pre- and postintervention data was performed to determine whether knowledge improved and to identify facilitators and barriers to SBIRT implementation.

 

Interventions: Nurses completed an online self-paced program focusing on alcohol and drug use screening, motivational interviewing used in a brief intervention, and referral to specialty treatment.

 

Results: Postintervention knowledge scores increased (P < .001). Facilitator and barrier themes included time, education, resources, receptivity, and interprofessional collaboration.

 

Conclusions: The implementation of the SBIRT online program was feasible for nurses to complete during work hours and resulted in increased SBIRT-related knowledge.