Opioid crisis in the adolescent population: A global health advocacy action plan- “Leave no one behind”

Background: We have a global epidemic of opioid-related overdose deaths that continues to rise. Worldwide, about 0.5 million deaths are attributable to drug use. More than 70% of these deaths are related to opioids, with more than 30% of those deaths caused by overdose. Research has largely focused on opioid use with adults. However, it has not demonstrated similar focus on adolescent use of opioids. Nurses are known to be the one health profession that spends the most direct care hours with people requiring support and are therefore, best positioned to become advocates on this issue and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals # 3 and #10.

Clinical Question: What can be done via a global advocacy plan to help with the current global opioid crisis in the adolescent and young adult population?

Evidence-based discussion: On a global scale, since nurses practice in a variety of direct-care settings, and care-coordination, leadership and executive roles, they can become exceptional advocates for the promotion of the improvement of education for all healthcare professionals and the public to achieve quality care for individuals with opioid misuse. Additionally, nurses can advocate for accessibility to naloxone training and medication. Nurses in the role of health promotors, can also provide public health knowledge on how to prevent the initiation of opioid misuse.

Translation to practice: Opioid addiction has resulted in elevated numbers of opioid-related deaths locally and globally. Most data on overdose deaths and education about substance misuse is about adults. Current data shows that more young people are using more drugs when compared with previous generations. Significant barriers in the healthcare system often prevent many adolescent and young adults from accessing needed services. Models of care that reduce stigma and minimize discrimination must be followed so that no one is left behind.