The 21st Century Opioid Addiction

Abstract

Introduction Opioid addiction is a mounting problem and concern in all parts of the world. Drug overdose related to opioid addiction was the leading cause of accidental death in the United States in 2015; this extends to people across all ages, races, genders, and socioeconomic statuses. It is estimated that 21 million Americans aged 12 years or older has one form of substance use disorder, of which 2 million involves the use of prescription pain relievers. The cost of opioid misuse is estimated to be $78.5B based on 2013 data. This amount has exponentially increased more than $20 billion per year compared with 6 years ago. Purpose We conducted a concept analysis of opioid addiction in the 21st century and present its implications for nursing. Methods Walker and Avant's eight steps for analyzing a concept were utilized. Results Uses of opioid addiction from the perspectives of healthcare, sociology, law, and economics are presented. Defining attributes of opioid addiction based on review of the literature include physical dependence to opioids, psychological craving for opioids, habitual use, and lack of self-control. Antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents are also identified. Model, related, and contrary cases are developed. Conclusion This concept analysis article enhances understanding of the current opioid addiction crisis that is affecting the country. Implications to Nursing Nurses are in a position to play critical roles in the fight against opioid addiction. Nursing opportunities exist starting from the bedside and can reach up to the White House.

Hyperbaric Oxygen to Assist Adults With Opioid Use Disorder in Reducing Methadone Dose

“…Comparisons of HBOT efficacy with other options should be explored. Nurses are well positioned to advocate for holistic care that can address physical dependence, psychological cravings, and lack of self-control related to opioid use (Kidd et al, 2020).…”

“…Approximately 1,000 chambers are in use in the United States with about one quarter of those sites receiving accreditation from the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society (Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society, 2020). Third-party payments in the United States generally only cover HBOT for the 14 approved conditions, and fees can vary widely per treatment session from $100 USD at an HBOT clinic to $1,000 at medical centers (Hyperbaric Link, 2020). The number of sessions necessary for benefit can vary as do individual responses and side effects.…”