Favorite cheat sheets, tools, references, resources

[LessValuableNinja]

Hey all.

Not new to nursing, but new to substance abuse nursing. I work PRN at a substance facility while in school and working a full time job, so anything that helps is great. It's even greater if it exists pocket-sized.

What tools, tricks, references, resources are your favorite for SAN?

N

[hppygr8ful, ASN, RN, EMT-I]

1. Never turn your back on a psych patient

2. Learn to bob and weave

3. JUst because they are addicts doesn't mean they are stupid, Manipulation is a hallmark of the disease and they will quickly learn how to push your buttons.

4. Learn the principals of the twelve step and read for reference the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous.

[Whispera, MSN, RN]

CIWA and COWS!

[CASTLEGATES]

I thoroughly agree with the others. I have no references for addiction (pocket sized), since it's more of an "on your feet, using your wit" sort of job. After being manipulated several times, I learn not to allow it to happen again. School of hard knocks (or how many times can they play me)? It's commendable you're motivated. If you're not familiar with the 12-steps, find anything in your life and get thine rear quarters to some meetings . There's a wrench to fit every nut, and I can apply the 12-steps to any stressor in my life. Knowing that will mean you'll speak the same language of most of the patients (since most will have been familiar with it, and it's the track your job will ask you to set them back upon). AA and NA books. Read them back to back. Staying Sober and anything by Terrence Gorsky (he's the relapse ranger). Read all that, and you'll be far ahead of others (depending on where you work). At my hospital, about 1500 nurses and only 1 certified in addictions (none on the addictions , detox or treatment units).