After an in-depth review by psychiatric-mental health nurses, this poster was awarded first place in the Research Category at the American Psychiatric Nurses Association 35th Annual Conference. Posters were judged on having clear research objectives, appropriate methodology, clear results, logical and supported interpretations and conclusions, and appropriateness of data analyses in addition to visual presentation and application to nursing practice. The APNA Conference was held virtually from October 13-16, 2021. Dr. Okoli is a professor at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing (UK CON) and director of the Behavioral Health Wellness Environments for Living and Learning (BH WELL) research team. He also holds a joint appointment at Eastern State Hospital, a state psychiatric facility, as Director of Tobacco Treatment and Evidence-Based Practice. Sarret Seng is a Ph.D. student at the UK CON and a graduate research assistant for BH WELL. She also works part-time as a psychiatric nurse at Eastern State Hospital.
BH WELL RESEARCH POSTER WINS 1st PLACE at APNA CONFERENCE
What is the relationship between the experience of trauma and substance use among healthcare workers? describes types of healthcare workers who encountered trauma and discusses the connection between trauma and substance use risk.
The poster summarizes research that looked at the relationship between healthcare workers’ trauma and risky substance use. Co-authored by Zim Okoli, Ph.D., MPH, MSN, PMHNP-BC, APRN, NCTTP, FAAN, and Sarret Seng, BSN, BA, RN, the study found that it is necessary to offer screening and treatments for both trauma and substance use. Doing so supports occupational mental health.