In this issue of Nursing Clinics of North America, guest editor Dr. Linda Stone brings her considerable expertise to the topic of Substance Use and Abuse. Substance Use Disorder (SUD) has long been recognized as a serious issue in the nursing and medical professions and in healthcare in general, yet gaps in knowledge about this disease continue to exist. Education to promote SUD awareness, reduce stigma, and assist in the early recognition and intervention of impaired individuals is essential for helping nurses continue to protect patients in the healthcare environment. The clinical reviews in this issue help fill the existing knowledge gaps about SUD in the nursing profession.
