Opioids and Controlled Substance Awareness Training for Michigan Nurses and Special Volunteers

Target Audience
Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Registered Nurse Special Volunteers, Licensed Practical Nurse Special Volunteers, and other Michigan nursing personnel who need opioid and controlled substance awareness education for licensure-related, role-based, delegation-related, or employer compliance purposes.

Teaching Method
Self-directed learning completed independently, with scenario-based reflection.

Overview
This course focuses on practical opioid and controlled substance awareness for Michigan nursing roles. The content addresses safe nursing observations, objective documentation, client-centered communication, medication safety concerns, appropriate escalation, and role boundaries when opioids or other controlled substances are part of a client’s care. Michigan licensing guidance requires individuals seeking or renewing a controlled substance license, or those licensed to prescribe or dispense controlled substances, to complete opioid and controlled substance awareness training that meets Administrative Rule R 338.3135 standards. Michigan’s Special Volunteer Licensing Guide also identifies this one-time training requirement for controlled substance licensees or individuals licensed to prescribe or dispense controlled substances.

The course includes awareness of Michigan Automated Prescription System, commonly called MAPS, state and federal controlled substance laws, risks related to opioids and other controlled substances, alternative and integrated approaches to pain management, stigma reduction, counseling considerations within the nurse’s role, medication security, and proper disposal concepts. The course does not authorize prescribing, dispensing, diagnosis, or independent medication changes. It supports safe nursing judgment, timely reporting, respectful communication, and accurate documentation within the learner’s legal scope of practice.

Learner Objectives
Upon completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

• Describe Michigan opioid and controlled substance awareness expectations, including MAPS, state and federal prescribing and dispensing concepts, and nursing role boundaries.
• Identify objective observations, medication safety risks, possible misuse or diversion concerns, stigma-related communication risks, and appropriate reporting pathways.
• Apply client-centered, nonjudgmental communication, documentation, and safety responses when opioids or other controlled substances are part of a client’s care.

Disclosure
The planner(s) and author(s) of this educational activity have disclosed that there are no relevant financial relationships with any commercial interests related to the content of this course. This course is developed for educational purposes and does not receive commercial support.

Disclaimer
The information provided in this course is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the content is not guaranteed to be free from errors or omissions. Participants are encouraged to consult with a qualified professional for specific advice related to their circumstances. The creators and presenters of this course disclaim any liability for decisions made based on the information provided.