The role of NPs in medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder

摘要

National Opioid Awareness Week is May 13-19, 2018. Although the focus of activities is on prevention, decreasing stigma and educating the public about treatment in primary care practices is essential. Approximately 115 people die every day from opioid overdose, and the number continues to rise.1 This serious, escalating public health crisis has led to medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorders in both specialty and primary care practices. As healthcare providers, legislatures and public health programs strive to decrease drug-related fatalities; nursing can play a significant role in confronting this crisis.