| The pilot qualitative grounded theory study explored the experiences of nurse practitioners' caring for patients whom they suspect have addictive behaviors, but the patients do not self-disclose the behaviors, nor have they been previously diagnosed with an addiction. Data was collected from three primary care nurse practitioners in a formal unstructured interview. Three main categories emerged from the data using open and axial coding methods suggested in the grounded theory process: (1) A Non judgmental Attitude, (2) A Caring Attitude, and (3) A Belief in Patient's Honesty. Three additional subcategories related to the nurse practitioners' questioning of patients regarding addictions also emerged. The study concluded that primary care nurse practitioners do not routinely screen for some of the more prevalent, but lesser known addictions such as those to gambling, sex, and food, but are comfortable and confident in screening for the more common addictions to alcohol, drugs and tobacco. |
