D14: Prevent Drug Abuse

Various colorful pills and tablets scattered on a white surface, representing medication.

Course Overview

CE Hours

3 CE Credits

Course Description

Preventing Drug Abuse examines the full spectrum of harmful drug use, including illegal drugs, medication misuse, and caffeine product misuse. This course covers drug testing indicators, the use and effects of commonly abused drugs including marijuana, inhalants, and methamphetamine, and evidence-based strategies for treatment and prevention at the individual, family, school, and community levels. Learners will gain practical knowledge for identifying drug use, applying prevention principles, and connecting individuals with appropriate treatment resources.

Course Learning Objectives

At the end of this course, learners will be able to:

  1. Define the field of drug abuse and identify the three categories of harmful drug use
  2. Describe the main indicators of likely drug use in individuals
  3. Identify the effects, overdose risks, duration, and methods of administration for commonly abused drugs including marijuana, inhalants, and methamphetamine
  4. Explain evidence-based prevention principles for reducing drug use among children, adolescents, and families
  5. Describe the role of family, school, and community environments in drug abuse prevention
  6. Identify interactive and age-appropriate prevention strategies for use with children and adolescents
  7. Describe the key steps in stopping substance abuse from assessment through rehabilitation
  8. Identify major community organizations and resources available for drug abuse prevention and treatment

Course Format and Faculty

Course Format:

Online linked resources and lectures available anytime, 24/7. Includes one multiple-choice exam taken at the end of the course. A passing grade of 75% is required. Upon passing, learners may print their certificate immediately.

Course Developers and Instructors:

R. Klimes, PhD, MPH (Johns Hopkins University) is a scholar and author in health-related research, health behaviors, ethics, end-of-life care, and overall wellness. He has written numerous research reports and books and has held academic and leadership roles in higher education and public health internationally.

Course Time:

About three hours for online study, test taking with course evaluation feedback and certificate printing.