American Addiction

This course reviews current issues surrounding Addiction, or substance use disorder and can be taken by anyone interested in the topic, but offers continuing education (CE) and continuing medical education (CME) credit for United States healthcare practitioners in nursing, medicine, pharmacy, mental health, dentistry, and more. Every 7 minutes, a life is lost to a drug overdose in our country. Simultaneously, every 30 minutes, a child is born dependent on opioids. As healthcare professionals, it is imperative to understand how we can provide compassionate, non-stigmatizing care while contributing positively to society. Addiction, or substance use disorder, is complex and often more so than what meets the eye. This course delves into the intricacies of addiction, covering a wide range of substances including stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine, various forms of cannabis (plant, synthetics, extracts), and opioids such as heroin, fentanyl, and carfentanil. Legal and clinical insights are essential, as substances like ethyl alcohol (beer, wine, liquor) transition across legal classifications, necessitating comprehensive knowledge for all healthcare professionals. Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is addressed through evidence-based medication-assisted treatments (MAT) such as naltrexone, methadone, and buprenorphine. Additionally, the course covers how to reverse opioid overdose-induced respiratory depression with naloxone. This educational activity aims to elevate your understanding and awareness of substance abuse, ensuring you are well-equipped to handle the complexities of addiction in your practice. Enhancing your knowledge of substance use disorders and learning practical strategies for non-stigmatic patient care is crucial. Staying informed about legal classifications and treatments prepares you to make a positive impact in combating the opioid crisis. Join us in this dynamic learning experience designed to inform, engage, and challenge your perspectives on addiction and patient care. This course is sure to open your eyes and elevate your professional practice.