Are practice nurses an underused resource for managing patients having problems with illicit drugs? A survey of one health authority area in England

Abstract

The involvement of primary health care teams (PHCTs) with people using illicit drugs is seen as vitally important. General practitioners (GPs) have not expressed enthusiasm for this work, but the level of involvement, or willingness, of practice nurses (PNs) is not well documented. The present report derives from a postal survey of the total population of GPs (response rate 66%) and PNs (response rate 61%) in the Bath District Health Authority, England, and from interviews with a 10% sample of respondents. Statistically significant differences were found between GPs and PNs. Forty-eight percent GPs but only 9% PNs provided services for illicit drug users; 14% GPs and only 4% PNs had relevant training. A greater percentage of PNs (31%) than GPs (22%) believed PHCTs were appropriate for providing drug services, and should screen for illicit drug use (55% PNs and 45% GPs). Training would increase willingness of 44% PNs and 24% GPs; and increase effectiveness with 72% PNs and 63% GPs. Two other differences were found which did not reach the level of statistical significance: extra support would increase willingness of 44% PNs and 46% GPs; and increase effectiveness with 59% PNs and 62% GPs. Suggestions are made for enhancing the role of practice nurses with patients using illicit drugs.