15.0: Introduction
Substance use disorders are a major public health concern in the United States and affect millions of people around the world. The consequences of substance use disorders can be catastrophic for the client, their family, and society at large. As frontline health care providers, nurses play a crucial role in the prevention, identification, and treatment of clients with substance use disorders. This chapter will review the definition of substance use disorders, how to identify clients with substance use disorders, and how to manage their condition. In addition to nonpharmacologic treatment options for substance use disorders, this chapter will also review medication therapy to assist in the treatment of opioid, alcohol, and nicotine use disorders.