Evaluating Stigma Toward Individuals With Substance Use Disorder Among Prelicensure Nursing Students

Abstract

Background: Seventeen percent of individuals in the United States live with substance use disorder (SUD). Nursing curricula may not adequately address SUD, and stigma can impact care. Purpose: This project aimed to measure stigma toward people with SUD among nursing students. Methods: Surveys were administered to prelicensure nursing students. Stigma was measured using the Opening Minds Provider Attitudes Toward Opioid-Use Scale. Students were asked about personal experience with SUD and perceived adequacy of SUD-related curricula. Results: A total of 193 students participated. The mean stigma score was 31.35. Those with personal experience had lower stigma scores than those without ([95% CI 2.26-9.23]; P value =.0014). Most students (71.0%) desired to see content from individuals with lived experience incorporated into curriculum. Conclusion: Addressing stigma in SUD education is critical for improving future patient care. Nursing schools should consider incorporating stigma-reducing content, including perspectives from individuals with lived experiences, into SUD curricula.