Nursing Interventions in Relapse Prevention – A Scoping Literature Review
Karki, Bibek; Gurung, Sonam (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025060319672
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025060319672
Tiivistelmä
Substance use disorder is a significant public health challenge worldwide. In 2021, an estimated 39.5 million individuals across the world were suffering through substance use disorders. Despite recovery efforts, the high rate of relapse significantly undermines treatment outcomes. Relapses remain high both during and after treatment, for individuals with substance use disorders. Nurses play a critical role in relapse prevention and in supporting long-term recovery.
This study examined nursing intervention strategies aimed at preventing relapse among individuals recovering from substance use disorders. The objective was to identify effective strategies that facilitate sustained recovery. It was conducted as part of a Bachelor of Health Care in Nursing thesis at Diaconia University of Applied Sciences.
A qualitative descriptive literature review methodology was employed, analyzing 20 peer-reviewed articles retrieved from health science databases including PubMed, CINAHL, and Academic Search Premier. Thematic analysis, guided by Braun and Clarke’s framework, was utilized to synthesize the data.
The review identified two principal categories of nursing interventions: psychological and behavioral-based interventions, and holistic and structural-based interventions. Key strategies included cognitive behavioral therapy, medication assisted treatment, patient education on managing cravings and triggers, mindfulness-based interventions etc.
The findings indicate that integrated, evidence-based, and patient-centered nursing interventions can significantly support long-term sobriety. Holistic approaches that combine psychological care, pharmacological support, and social engagement are essential in reducing the risk of relapse. It is relevant for nurses, healthcare professionals, and nursing students working in substance abuse care, aiming to contribute to the enhancement of relapse prevention practices across various healthcare settings.
This study examined nursing intervention strategies aimed at preventing relapse among individuals recovering from substance use disorders. The objective was to identify effective strategies that facilitate sustained recovery. It was conducted as part of a Bachelor of Health Care in Nursing thesis at Diaconia University of Applied Sciences.
A qualitative descriptive literature review methodology was employed, analyzing 20 peer-reviewed articles retrieved from health science databases including PubMed, CINAHL, and Academic Search Premier. Thematic analysis, guided by Braun and Clarke’s framework, was utilized to synthesize the data.
The review identified two principal categories of nursing interventions: psychological and behavioral-based interventions, and holistic and structural-based interventions. Key strategies included cognitive behavioral therapy, medication assisted treatment, patient education on managing cravings and triggers, mindfulness-based interventions etc.
The findings indicate that integrated, evidence-based, and patient-centered nursing interventions can significantly support long-term sobriety. Holistic approaches that combine psychological care, pharmacological support, and social engagement are essential in reducing the risk of relapse. It is relevant for nurses, healthcare professionals, and nursing students working in substance abuse care, aiming to contribute to the enhancement of relapse prevention practices across various healthcare settings.