Inhalant abuse is a frightening problem. This decade shows an increase in inhalant abuse across America. Although it is often a transient phase of drug experimentation, inhaling may lead to addiction or other drug usage. First time usage can also result in death or in permanent disability. It is important that nurses have full access to information that would help them identify inhalant abuse.

Nurses need to take the leadership in assessing youth, in educating health care professional, educators and the public. Inhalant abuse must not remain an invisible problem. Nurses need to play an integral role in identification, prevention and education.

The following websites are excellent additional sources for teaching tools.

Click here for "Neuroscience for Kids" from the University of Washington guide

Click here for a Teacher's Guide from NIDA

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