Changing Nurse Practitioner Students’ Perceptions Regarding Substance Use Disorder

Nurse practitioners (NPs) are in a key position to provide services to persons with substance use disorder and decrease marginalization and stigmatization. There is a paucity of evidence on interventions to affect NPs’ attitudes/beliefs, confidence/preparedness, concerns/barriers, and ability to treat substance use disorder. The presented research demonstrated significant positive changes (P < .05) in 33 of 44 items on the Substance Use Disorder, Knowledge, Attitudes and Beliefs Survey, after NP students were provided a targeted educational program on the treatment of opioid use disorder. The research supports educational programs positively impacting NPs’ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding persons with substance use disorder. •A need exists for substance use disorder care without marginalization or stigmatization.•Nurse practitioners are in a position to provide optimal care for substance use disorder.•Evidence is lacking on nurse practitioner skill development to address substance use disorder.•The research demonstrates significance of substance use disorder education.