Integrating Nursing Practice and Policy in Opioid Overdose Prevention: Analysis of the Opioid‐Overdose Reduction Continuum of Care Approach Practice Guide

Abstract

AimTo present a comprehensive analysis of the Opioid‐Overdose Reduction Continuum of Care Approach (ORCCA) Practice Guide 2023, evaluating its alignment with Russell and Fawcett's conceptual model of nursing and health policy and highlighting the implications for nursing practice and policy.DesignThis paper employs a policy analysis framework to evaluate the ORCCA Practice Guide, using Russell and Fawcett's conceptual model as a lens to assess the policy's structure and implementation.MethodsThe analysis is framed by Russell and Fawcett's conceptual model, focusing on the dimensions of efficacy, effectiveness, equity and justice. This framework assesses how well the ORCCA's strategies align with these dimensions in the context of nursing and health policy.ResultsKey findings indicate that the ORCCA's strategies are integral to nursing practice, particularly in frontline interventions such as education, naloxone distribution and Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) delivery. The integration of these strategies demonstrates a significant impact on the opioid crisis, enhancing the roles nurses play in opioid overdose prevention.ConclusionThe ORCCA Practice Guide represents a multifaceted approach to addressing the opioid crisis, with strong alignment to the conceptual model used for analysis. It underscores the essential role of nurses in implementing and refining opioid overdose reduction strategies.ImplicationsThe study highlights the critical need for nursing involvement in policy formation and practice implementation, suggesting that nurses are key to advancing comprehensive opioid overdose prevention measures.ImpactThis study addresses the problem of opioid overdoses and the need for effective interventions. The main findings show the importance of nurse‐driven strategies in opioid crisis management. The research impacts public health policy and practice, particularly influencing how nursing approaches are integrated into overall health strategies for overdose prevention.No Patient or Public ContributionNo patients, caregivers, or members of the public were involved in conducting this analysis.