Title: The Evolution of Cannabis Use in Medicine: A Review of Nursing Scholarly Journal Articles
Introduction:
The use of cannabis for medicinal purposes has a long history that can be traced back thousands of years. Over the years, its use has been mired in controversy and subject to changing legal and cultural attitudes. This review aims to examine the history of cannabis use in medicine through an analysis of nursing scholarly journal articles. By exploring the viewpoints of various stakeholders, reviewing current medical and nursing research, and discussing the policy and legal implications surrounding medicinal cannabis, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of its evolving role in healthcare.
Stakeholders in Support:
Cannabis as a therapeutic agent has gained support from a diverse group of stakeholders including patients, healthcare providers, and advocacy organizations. Patients suffering from chronic pain, nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, glaucoma, and multiple sclerosis have reported relief and improved quality of life through the use of medicinal cannabis. Similarly, healthcare providers, such as nurses, have found cannabis to be a valuable tool in managing symptoms and improving patient outcomes.
Advocacy organizations, such as Americans for Safe Access and the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), have championed the use of medicinal cannabis. These organizations argue that patients should have access to a safe and effective alternative therapy when conventional treatments fail or cause undesirable side effects.
Stakeholders in Opposition:
Opposition to medicinal cannabis primarily comes from regulatory bodies, law enforcement agencies, and some medical professionals. These stakeholders express concerns about potential misuse, lack of standardized dosing, and the addictive properties of cannabis. Some argue that the psychoactive properties of cannabis make it unsuitable for medical use and that alternative evidence-based treatments should be explored.
Current Medical/Nursing Research Findings:
In recent years, nursing scholarly journal articles have explored the use of medicinal cannabis across various medical conditions. Research has demonstrated its effectiveness in alleviating pain, reducing chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting, and improving spasticity in multiple sclerosis patients. Studies have also indicated the potential benefits of cannabis in managing psychiatric disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and chronic insomnia.
Cannabis use has been associated with positive outcomes in palliative care, where it has been found to alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce opioid dependence. Furthermore, research has shown that cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, has therapeutic potential in treating epilepsy and other neurological disorders.
However, despite positive findings, the literature underscores the need for further research, particularly in terms of long-term safety, optimal dosing, and potential interactions with other medications. Furthermore, research on the impact of medicinal cannabis on vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or pregnant women, is limited and requires more investigation.
Policy, Legal, and Future Practice Implications:
As cannabis use in medicine gains momentum, policymakers face challenges in developing appropriate regulations and standards. The legal status of medicinal cannabis varies across countries and states, with some jurisdictions allowing for its use while others maintain strict prohibitions. The discrepancies in policy create barriers to research and limit access for patients.
The evolving legal landscape and growing body of evidence regarding the benefits and risks of medicinal cannabis necessitate regular policy reviews. Healthcare professionals, including nurses, should stay informed about local regulations and guidelines to provide evidence-based care and counsel patients effectively.
Future practice implications include the integration of medicinal cannabis into clinical guidelines, education of healthcare professionals, and the development of standardized protocols for prescribing, dosing, and monitoring patients using cannabis as a therapeutic agent. Nursing organizations should play a pivotal role in advocating for the inclusion of medicinal cannabis in the broader healthcare framework through research, education, and policy initiatives.
Conclusion:
The history of cannabis use in medicine is a complex and evolving narrative. Nursing scholarly journal articles provide valuable insights into the perspectives of stakeholders, current medical/nursing research findings, and the policy and legal implications surrounding its use. The increasing utilization of medicinal cannabis calls for ongoing research, evidence-based practice, and well-informed policies to ensure safe and effective patient care.
