Basic information

Nurses who have worked with intoxicated patients often face reactions such as disapproval, intolerance, anger or disinterest. Substance abuse is often seen as a moral issue rather than a health issue. Many people see this problem as smaller than it is because they thik that addicts can stop if they wanted to. Very often, people face manipulative, aggressive or hostile intoxicated people and they alone can feel angry because they care for them.

When you are trying to nurse an intoxicated person, make sure you do the following things:

Do not let the patient provoke you to aggressive behaviour. You need to stay calm and explain whatever is necessary. If the intoxicated patient becomes aggressive or hostile, call for help rather than trying to solve the situation by yourself.

You should know which substance the patient is intoxicated with, the quantity they took and the last time the substance was consumed.

Assess for potential withdrawal symptoms and manage them.

Try to develop a relationship with the intoxicated person using empathy and trust.

You should ensure the safety of the intoxicated person, yourself and others. Injuries may occur if you don't.

Once the person is no longer intoxicated, try to talk about healthy lifestyle behaviour, evoke interest in talking about issues that may provoke substance abuse.

Ensure effective collaboration with other relevant service providers. Support and promote access to relevant information and self-care activities for families and carers of the person who is intoxicated.