Targeted training leads to significant increase in the delivery of alcohol interventions in primary care, new study shows

New research published today (8 February) shows a marked increase in the delivery of alcohol brief interventions in primary care settings where nurse mentors are specifically trained, bringing significant benefits to those at risk of alcohol harm. The research, funded by Alcohol Research UK and conducted by Substance Misuse Management Good Practice (SMMGP), highlights the key role that nurse mentors can play in leading the implementation of alcohol brief interventions. By offering brief advice to those at risk, clinicians are able to advise patients on effective strategies to reduce their drinking. Key findings from the study show: Support of nurse mentors in primary care settings leads to a significant increase in the delivery of alcohol brief advice. Awareness raising and training across the practice helps staff become more effective at identifying alcohol-related harm and in providing brief interventions to those at risk. Supporting nurse mentors in leading on the implementation of alcohol brief advice has the potential for reducing alcohol-related harm in a primary care setting within existing resources. Dr Steve Brinksman, from Substance Misuse Management Good Practice (SMMGP) and lead author of the study, said: “The primary care team has great strengths in identifying, assessing and preventing health harms. By supporting nurse mentors in leading on the implementation of IBA there is potential for reducing alcohol-related harm within the existing resources of th...
Source: Alcohol Research UK - Category: Addiction Authors: Tags: News brief interventions identification and brief advice Source Type: news