With the dramatic rise in the use and misuse of psychoactive drugs, prescribed medications, illicit and social drugs, many health, social and economic problems have resulted. Government and health educational establishments now recognise this as a major theme to be included within undergraduate and postgraduate education. This comprehensive book provides essential information on substance misuse in both the acute and community settings. It will assist student and practising nurses, and health care practitioners, to understand the extent and nature of substance misuse, and the knowledge and skills required in its management to provide effective care. The book looks at preventative health education, early