Ep 231: How to Care for People with a Substance Use Disorder

Check out the timestamps below to help you navigate through the many topics we discussed.

On This Episode:

Nearly all of us have been in a situation where we’ve noticed something off or not right about someone we work with or someone we know but we didn’t say anything or take action. It’s a problem across the country, but the CRNA profession has a higher rate of substance use disorders than the general public.  

So how can we do a better job identifying and helping our peers who feel isolated and suffer from a substance use disorder? Today’s guest has spent a lot of her time in recent years trying to help educate people in this area. Leigh Taylor, DNP, MS, CRNA, APRN, presented at the AANA Annual Congress, which is where we first saw her and knew it’s a topic we wanted to spend more time discussing on the podcast.

Leigh is from Nashville originally but lives in Connecticut now and she’s a State Peer Advisor for the AANA representing the state. She’s incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about helping those with substance use disorders, and today’s episode will dive into this difficult topic and help bring some of the darkness to light.

Here are some of the things you’ll learn on this show:

• Background on Leigh and the topic we’re discussing. [2:36]
• The substance abuse disorder data within the CRNA community. [6:50]
• Why does she think this is so prevalent in the community? [8:10]
• The stats show about 10% of CRNAs have an SUD. [13:46]
• The signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for [20:46]
• Where can you go to get help for someone? Here are some of the resources that are available. [26:05]
• The other drugs that are most common in those with SUDs. [30:18]
• What can you do if you feel like you’re suffering from this but afraid to speak up. [36:25]

Check out the interview at the top of the page and use the timestamps to help you navigate through the many topics we discussed.