How to Become an Addictions Nurse
Addictions nursing is a diverse field that is ever-evolving. As new substances are abused, the addiction nurse must keep up with new skills and theories. Each state has its own way of handling addiction nursing and various organizations may require specific certifications. Follow these steps to familiarize yourself with this nursing specialization and to begin your practice.
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Instructions
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Review your state's guidelines for becoming an addictions nurse.
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Review your mental health nursing curriculum that you obtained while in school. Concentrate on the nursing diagnosis information.
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Attend conferences for addiction rehabilitation and counseling. Contact your state's Nursing Association if you are unable to find these through your employer.
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Check into post-graduate nursing programs. Many certifications require a minimum of a bachelor's degree and some require up to a doctorate.
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Volunteer in rehabilitation centers or clinics.
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Familiarize yourself with the current trends in substance abuse by visiting sites such as the one ran by the National Association for Addiction Professionals.
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Check into certification by the International Nurses Society on Addictions. The organization requires you to pass a test to become a Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (CARN).
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Tips & Warnings
Maintain your nursing skills by working on-call at a hospital or clinic, even after you become an addictions nurse. Become familiar with the legal aspects of drug abuse prior to working as an addictions nurse. Coordinate your required continuing education credits so that you can obtain most of them from your addictions nurse training.
Always refer to your state's board of nursing for any additional requirements. Make sure your insurance covers work as an addictions professional.
Resources
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