Core Concepts for Trauma-Informed Substance Use Education in Graduate Nursing: A Delphi Study
Jennie E. Ryan, Meghan Gannon, Kate Daugherty, Jason Lynch, Stephen DiDonatoBackground:
Trauma exposure and substance use frequently co-occur, yet guidance for integrating trauma-informed substance use education in graduate nursing is limited.
Purpose:
This study aimed to establish consensus on core concepts for trauma-informed substance use education in graduate nursing.
Methods:
A 3-round Delphi study was conducted with nursing educators, trauma-informed and substance use experts, and individuals with lived experience. Round 1 elicited concepts, round 2 involved importance ratings, and round 3 focused on prioritization.
Results:
Nine core concepts were identified, all achieving consensus in round 2 (80%-95% rated ≥4). Round 3 showed differences in prioritization (χ
2
(8) =49.84,
Conclusions:
These findings provide a consensus-based framework to guide curriculum development and prepare advanced practice nurses to deliver trauma-informed, stigma-reducing care.