Bridging the Gap: Canadian Healthcare Providers' Perspectives of Harm Reduction and Substance Use Education in Hospital.

Abstract

Background: The complexity of health concerns associated with unregulated substance use has led to increased hospital utilization by people who use unregulated substances. Health care providers have described inadequate knowledge to adequately support this patient population during hospitalization.

Aims: The aim of this research was to explore health care providers' perspectives on harm reduction and substance use education in hospital settings.

Methods: A qualitative secondary analysis was conducted using an interpretive lens. The research was conducted across three hospitals in one city in Southwestern Ontario. To guide the research, 31 health care providers, the majority being nurses, participated in either focus groups or individual interviews based on preference. All focus group or interview data were analyzed using an ethnographic method of analysis focusing on the hospital environment and education.

Results: Health care providers described two interconnected states regarding harm reduction and substance use education: the current state and the desired state. Key themes which emerged in the current state and desired state include: (a) insufficient education, (b) lack of resources, (c) inconsistent policy, (d) culture of stigma and suboptimal care, (e) enhanced education, (f) resources, (g) policy change, and (h) culture shift and optimal care.

Conclusion: Findings of this study demonstrate the need for supportive policies, adequate resources, and enhanced harm reduction and substance use in hospital settings. Addressing these gaps is essential to transforming hospital culture and improving care for people who use unregulated substances. These insights can inform future policy, practice, education, and guide new research initiatives.