Learn about contributing factors, associated health issues and the interventions available

There is little doubt that opiates have transformed healthcare, particularly in relation to pain management. However, many patients prescribed this type of drug develop problems such as dependency. Although we do not know how many older people have developed such problems due to opiate use we know that some will. It is important for nurses to understand the context in which opiates are used, as well as the specific needs of older people and how to respond to them.

Women who misuse drugs increasingly likely to die young. Nurses can help prevent these premature deaths by recognising that such behaviour is often a way of coping with trauma.