The Rise of Cannabis Nursing: ANA’s Groundbreaking Recognition
It’s a momentous time in the world of nursing. With the constantly shifting landscape of healthcare, nurses have always been at the forefront, ensuring patients receive compassionate and up-to-date care. Today, Cannabis Nurses Network is celebrating a significant step forward in our profession: the announcement on September 27, 2023 by the American Nurses Association (ANA) acknowledging Cannabis Nursing as a recognized nursing specialty.
The Milestone Recognition
The ANA’s acknowledgment doesn’t just stand as a testament to the growing acceptance of medical cannabis but also shines a light on the hard work and dedication of countless nurses who have advocated for its medicinal benefits over the years. This recognition signifies a new chapter in medical care, one where cannabis and its therapeutic properties can be incorporated more seamlessly into patient care, with the expertise of specialized nurses leading the way.
NCSBN National Nursing Guidelines for Cannabis Patient Care
As with all healthcare practices, it’s essential that there are guidelines in place to ensure the safety and well-being of patients. In 2018, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) set forth comprehensive National Nursing Guidelines for Marijuana. These guidelines serve as a blueprint for nurses, ensuring that they’re equipped with the most recent knowledge and best practices when providing care for cannabis patients or advising on cannabis-based treatments.
It’s noteworthy to mention that these guidelines focus on the broader scope of patient care. They delve into areas like ethical considerations, patient education, and potential side effects, ensuring that nurses have a 360-degree view of what’s involved in cannabis care.
Essential Knowledge for Endocannabinoid System Care
For nurses looking to delve deeper into this specialty, the Cannabis Nurses Network (CNN) offers an excellent continuing education (CE) program: Essential Knowledge for Endocannabinoid System Care. This program is based on the national nursing guidelines and has been meticulously designed to ensure nurses get a thorough understanding of the endocannabinoid system and how cannabinoids and other complementary approaches interact with and support it.
The course goes beyond just theory; it’s packed with real-world applications, case studies, and actionable insights that nurses can employ in their practice. By enrolling in this program, nurses are not just expanding their knowledge base but are also aligning themselves with a future-forward approach to holistic patient care.
In Conclusion… Celebrate Progress
The recognition of Cannabis Nursing as a specialty by the ANA isn’t just a win for the medical cannabis community or the nurses who have been advocating for it; it’s a win for patients worldwide. As the barriers surrounding cannabis in healthcare continue to dissipate, patients can look forward to a more inclusive, informed, and holistic approach to their health and well-being.
To our fellow nurses, whether you’re looking to specialize in cannabis nursing or are just curious about its applications in healthcare, now is the perfect time to dive in and educate ourselves. With resources like the NCSBN guidelines and CNN’s community and continuing education programs, there’s a wealth of knowledge and support at our fingertips. Let’s continue to innovate, educate, and provide the best care possible for our patients.
