Essentials of Substance Use Disorders for CHOs/Nurses/ ANMs

Throughout this course, you will learn to:

• Understand addiction as a chronic health condition

• Recognize the effects of alcohol, tobacco, and other psychoactive substances

• Identify the physical, psychological, social, and legal consequences of substance use

• Screen individuals using the WHO ASSIST tool

• Deliver Brief Intervention (BI) for substance use

• Interpret WHO ASSIST scores and determine appropriate levels of risk

• Identify referral pathways and support continuity of care

• Participate effectively in medical and psychosocial treatment

• Provide nursing care during withdrawal management

• Promote rehabilitation, recovery, and relapse prevention

• Self-paced online learning

• Evidence-based nursing practice

• WHO ASSIST linked BI

• Interactive learning activities

• Real-life clinical scenarios

• Practical nursing skills

• Mobile-friendly learning

• Certificate upon successful completion

• This course is designed for:

  • Community Health Officers (CHOs)

  • Registered Nurses

  • Nursing Officers

  • Staff Nurses

  • Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM)

  • Community Health Nurses

  • Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurses

  • Nursing Educators

  • Nursing Students (final year/internship)

People with substance use disorders frequently seek care in general hospitals, emergency departments, primary care settings, and community health centres. Early identification and compassionate, evidence-based care can significantly improve health outcomes and reduce stigma.

By strengthening competencies in screening, brief intervention, referral, treatment support, and recovery-oriented care, nurses can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.