Knowledge and practice of Jordanian emergency nurses caring for patients with drug-seeking behaviors

Clin Nurs Res. 2012 Aug;21(3):368-84. doi: 10.1177/1054773811420284. Epub 2011 Aug 30.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the meaning and knowledge level and practices of emergency nurses in Jordan in relation to drug-seeking behaviors in the emergency units in Jordan. A descriptive correlation design was used. Data were collected using self-report questionnaires from 305 emergency nurses, employed in different emergency departments (EDs) in Jordan. The results of this study revealed that the ED nurses had a moderate level of ability to describe patients with drug-seeking behaviors, had moderate agreement on the behaviors that may suggest drug seeking, and a moderate level of knowledge related to drug-seeking behaviors. The analyses also showed that the ED nurses had negative attitudes toward drug-seeking behaviors, and lacked the ability to manage drug-seeking behaviors, when identified. Nurses in the EDs who completed the questionnaires identified a need for more drug seeking-behavior knowledge and skills to assess and manage this condition more effectively.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Clinical Competence*
  • Clinical Nursing Research
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Drug-Seeking Behavior*
  • Emergency Nursing / standards*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Jordan
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nursing Evaluation Research
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital / psychology
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital / standards*
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital / statistics & numerical data
  • Practice Patterns, Nurses'*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult