How do we increase problem drinkers' self‐efficacy? A nurse‐led brief intervention putting theory into practice

Abstract

Aims: The work undertaken aimed to develop an alcohol‐related brief intervention based on the theoretical concepts of the self‐efficacy construct. The brief intervention was to be administered by general nurses in a general hospital setting for patients who were identified as potential problem drinkers.

Background: Alcohol‐related brief interventions use methods such as booklets, verbal advice, counselling and behaviour change techniques in an attempt to change alcohol consumption behaviour with the aim of reducing levels of alcohol consumption. Miller and Sanchez () identified self‐efficacy as one of six elements typically included in brief interventions. Nurses have been identified as being in a prime position to administer interventions (Arthur, ). This work provides essential information relating to the specific content of interventions and the processes involved for nurses to fulfil this role.

Methods: The intervention was developed following a review of existing related literature.

Findings: Using the theoretical concepts of the self‐efficacy construct a single session nurse administered minimal intervention was developed. The brief intervention comprised of nine stages.

Discussion: The development of a nurse‐administered intervention with a sound theoretical basis demonstrates the ability to link theory to practice. The intervention was implemented within a general hospital setting following identification of potential problem drinkers.

• Alcohol
• self‐efficacy
• brief intervention
• nurse administered
• general hospital
• theory
• practice

Acknowledgements

This work was conducted by the first author as part of a 3‐year PhD studentship funded by the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Community Health at Glasgow Caledonian University. Professor Hazel E Watson, Professor Jean MacIntosh and Mr Angus MacFadyen were the academic supervisors for the doctorate. Mr George Starr, Lecturer, School of Nursing, University of Abertay administered the minimal intervention.