Substance abuse can be defined as a pattern of harmful use of any substance which alters the normal functioning of the body. These drugs are either sniffed, smoked, or injected in the bloodstream. The drug addicts develop some disorders which require specialized care by specific personnel. This paper shows the necessary skills, knowledge, and attitudes counselors need to fully handle the patients according to competency 59.
Therapists should have knowledge on how to motivate addicts in behavior modification. The condition should be examined considering all factors to determine the possibility of retaining them. Admission papers should contain the full names of the patient, age, marital status, physical location, and doctor’s examination. The documents must be provided by the hospital upon arrival and all details about the health facility should be included for follow-up. Information concerning the client should be made confidential and should not include third parties as this may lead to self-esteem issues.
The state requirements about certain drug abuse should be known, especially where some drugs are illegal and how if improperly used may lead to imprisonment. Discharge protocols should be adhered to and necessary documents to verify the process must be known. The society’s perspective on drugs plays a critical role where members who use them are seen as misfits. The expenses of treatment may be government sponsored or individualized. Moreover, health care organizations have to establish rules which must be followed by patients. They may set aside special rooms for these groups of clients where movement is localized and controlled.
Communication skills should be learnt by the doctors who are handling these individuals. A clear, simple, formal, and precise language should be adopted both orally and in written form. The various persons handling the patient should also develop a friendly interaction for the recovery process. Services such as medication, feeding and guidance should be in cooperated under a friendly environment. The attitude by all authorities starting from family, society, the nation, and the hospital workers should be positive. All the above groups of people should collaborate and see these patients as transformed persons. This will ensure a successful rehabilitation from substance abuse, hence a valued individual. The behavior of the client should be closely monitored and recommendations given. The records should be noted as they are very useful in evaluation to determine whether the patient will be retained for further care or released.