The Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test and Brief Intervention resource has been developed for nurses who work with patients with substance use issues. The DVD and manual shows nurses and health professionals how to conduct the ASSIST test and provide targeted brief intervention. ASSIST with Substance has been licensed to health services across Australia for use in clinical practice. The resource is available from ARI at an affordable individual fee or for institutions through a multi seat license.
Psychoactive substance use is a leading global cause of preventable morbidity and mortality. Most people with hazardous substance use disorders do not seek specialist care. Screening and brief intervention aim to identify current or potential problems with substance use and motivate those at risk to change their substance use behaviour by increasing awareness between consumption and related health risks.
Nurses working in primary and acute medical settings are well placed to play a key role in the identification and prevention of hazardous alcohol consumption, smoking and substance-related problems. The ASSIST with Substance resource is available to help nurses devote time to conducting interventions.
The ASSIST with Substance was developed by the University of Adelaide's DASA WHO Collaborating Centre in conjunction with the World Health Organisation and the Department of Health. To purchase the resource, please contact ARI.