Prescreening Recommendations for Patients on Medical Cannabis

Prescreening Recommendations for Patients on Medical Cannabis by Wen Chieh Hu Project Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice Walden University August 2019 Abstract Marijuana is the most frequently used illegal substance in the United States and is most widely used among young people aged 12 to 21 years. Accurate screening and monitored issuance of medical cannabis recommendations have been shown to decrease abuse rates of the substance, create fewer deaths from opiates, reduce crime rates, reduce marijuana use in youths, decrease car crash deaths, and lessen prevalence of suicide in young men.Marijuana is the most frequently used illegal substance in the United States and is most widely used among young people aged 12 to 21 years. Accurate screening and monitored issuance of medical cannabis recommendations have been shown to decrease abuse rates of the substance, create fewer deaths from opiates, reduce crime rates, reduce marijuana use in youths, decrease car crash deaths, and lessen prevalence of suicide in young men. The purpose of this project was to explore whether multiple screening methods for depression and anxiety in patients who seek medical cannabis referrals for anxiety and depression would improve screening and cannabis referral accuracy. A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted, and 2 screening tools were identified. The tools identified were the Zung self-rating anxiety scale and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 scale. The medical director at the project site reviewed the tools and approved them. These tools were then included in an education program for 12 staff members and providers with a pretest given to the participants prior to the staff education program. A posttest was then administered to the same group after the staff education program was completed and the new screening measures implemented. Results showed that referrals for cannabis were at 85% before the 2-step screening process was implemented; referrals for cannabis decreased to 60% with implementation of the dual screening method, suggesting increased accuracy in screening for depression and anxiety for cannabis referrals. This project might promote positive social change by increasing accuracy for cannabis referrals and reducing the risk of cannabis abuse. Prescreening Recommendations for Patients on Medical Cannabis by Wen Chieh Hu Project Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice Walden University August 2019 Dedication This is dedicated to Maria Luz, my wife, my source of strength and inspiration. Acknowledgments This project would not be completed without the following significant persons:  Maria Luz, my loving wife who never fail to lighten and brighten my days; for her unconditional love and care and for keeping me company especially during the wee hours when I need to work on this project;  Dr. Janice Long, my Mentor who unselfishly shares her knowledge and tirelessly continues to motivate me; she is constantly in touch, monitoring, and making sure that I stay on the right track;  My classmates who shared significant tips – great help! And most of all, I offer my great thanks and bring back the glory to our Heavenly Father – the only source of wisdom and strength.