DescriptionPurpose of Project: Opioid use disorder is a chronically relapsing disorder requiring multiple attempts with treatment: that is why the ability to access treatment is so important. Barriers for accessing treatment directly impact outcomes due to higher risks for mortality and discouragement of seeking treatment. Wait time is a commonly studied barrier associated with unsuccessful treatment entry. Wait times can average a month or more for treatment entry. The purpose of this project was to explore the relationship between opioid use treatment waitlist experience and treatment outcomes.
Methodology: This correlational pilot project took place in a small outpatient medication assisted treatment program in an urban city in New Jersey. A total of 25 male and female participants at least 18 years of age were recruited. Participants engagement was recorded across 30 days. The outcome measures included waitlist, resilience, and engagement. A waitlist survey examined the number of waitlist occurrence, denial of treatment entry, and feelings of depression and anxiety. Self-esteem, self-efficacy, intellect, religiosity/spirituality, optimism, and family support were used as factors for measuring resilience. Treatment engagement included urine toxicology screens and group attendance.
Results: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic participant recruitment was halted and there was a decrease in participant engagement. Most of the participants had at least one experience of delayed treatment entry. Nearly all participants reported experiencing depression, anxiety, withdrawal, or no cessation of opioids while waiting to enter treatment.
Implications for Practice: In order to effectively improved outcomes as an Advanced Practice Nurse treating individuals with opioid use disorder the following nursing practices will be beneficial; obtaining a waiver to practice opioid dependency treatment, monitoring signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression, targeting women in treatment for retention purposes, retraining resilience skills, and meeting individuals were they are by using harm reduction as a model for participants who are having difficulties with buprenorphine compliance.