A comparative discussion on the role, challenges, and opportunities for addiction nurses within Europe

The International Nurses Society on Addictions (IntNSA) has a  mission to advance excellence in addiction nursing practice through advocacy, collaboration, education, research, and policy development. Addiction nursing is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a robust healthcare workforce to address the evolving challenges of supporting patients and service users.
In this workshop, nurse leaders from IntNSA will discuss and analyse addiction nursing in several European countries, such as Portugal, Ireland, the UK, and the Netherlands. The purpose is to understand how these nations address the unique needs of nurses in addiction care. The discussion will focus on the similarities and differences among countries in their approaches to supporting nurses in the addiction field, fostering mutual learning, and promoting best practices. IntNSA will introduce itself as an organisation and emphasise the importance of a European-wide nursing group to support the needs of nurses in developing a voice and identity, benefitting both service users and the workforce. The workshop will also highlight collaborative work opportunities within the region and individual countries.
Key topics to be discussed include:

 Educational Initiatives: A comparison of the educational curricula, training programmes, and research opportunities available to nurses in the addiction field in various countries.
Legal and Regulatory Frameworks: Examining the legal and regulatory frameworks governing the practice of addiction nursing, including the scope of practice and policies related to controlled substances.
Workforce Development: Strategies employed by different countries to recruit, retain, and support nurses in addiction care, including career advancement opportunities and professional development.
Integration of Mental Health and Addiction Services: An Assessment of How Nations Integrate Mental Health and Addiction Services, with a Focus on the Role of Nurses in Collaborative Care Models.
Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Insights into the role of nurses in advancing addiction research, implementing evidence-based interventions, and contributing to policy development.