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by Shereda Finch, M.Ed. MPA Preventing substance use disorders (SUDs) and associated problems in children, adolescents and young adults should include comprehensive, integrative approaches that involve parents, families, communities and medical professionals, even nurses. The 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health showed that in 2016, 28.6 million people aged 12 or older used an illicit drug during the past 30 days, which corresponds to about 1 in 10 Americans overall (10.6%). For adults ages 18-25, that range was …

by Shereda Finch, M.Ed. MPA In Alabama, many individuals, families and communities have been impacted by the Opioid Crisis. As evidenced by reports of opioid overdose deaths across the state, it is clear that the Crisis does not discriminate based on race, zip code or economic status. What is an Opioid? Opioids are a class of drugs used to reduce pain. Prescription opioids are prescribed by doctors to treat pain. Some common types of opioids are oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), …

The Alabama Nursing Foundation (ANF) awarded seven scholarships at FACES ’18 on April 17, 2018 at Eastmont Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. Academic scholarships were available to any Alabama resident enrolled in education leading to a nursing degree. This year’s awardees hailed from all over the state and included both nursing students and nurses who returned to school to further their education. Congratulations Academic Scholarship Awardees Courtney Morgan Cox, Auburn University My goals are to complete the dual MSN program …

by Tyler Sturdivant, MSN, RN, AGCNS-BC, SCRN and Chondra Butler, DNP, RN, AGCNS-BC The clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is an advanced practice nurse (APN) who serves as a clinical expert within a specialty population. Like other APNs, (nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, and certified registered nurse anesthetist) the CNS is educationally prepared with either a master’s or doctoral degree. While the other APNs function primarily as providers, the CNS role encompasses a multitude of healthcare practices. The CNS focuses on treating …

by Don Eddins, JD Estate planning is important, since we never know what the future holds. At a minimum, the estate plan should include a will, a durable power of attorney and an advance directive for health care, which includes a living will. Last Wills and Testaments A will, or “last will and testament”, allows an individual to decide the disposition of his estate, rather than the government. The maker of the will, also known as a “testator,” can determine …