nurses must remain committed to lifelong learning. Evidence-based practice requires us to continually update our knowledge rather than relying on outdated information or personal opinions.
I had the privilege of serving as a board member of the American Cannabis Nurses Association( ACNA). During my time on the board, I worked alongside dedicated nursing leaders who shared the common goal of advancing cannabis education within our profession. One significant achievement was supporting the development of Cannabis Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice,( 2017) a resource designed to guide nurses in providing safe, ethical, and evidence-based care. This work reinforced my belief that education empowers nurses to become stronger advocates for their patients.
Cannabis policy in the United States continues to evolve, with ongoing discussions surrounding federal scheduling, expanded research opportunities, and medical use. Because regulations and evidence are changing rapidly, nurses should stay informed through trusted professional organizations, continuing education, and state regulatory boards. Remaining current allows us to answer patient questions accurately while practicing within legal and professional standards.
What Should We Do as Healthcare Professionals?
We should continue following the laws and regulations within our state, adhere to our organization ' s policies, and always practice within our nursing scope. More importantly, we should create an environment where patients feel comfortable disclosing cannabis use without fear of judgment. Honest conversations improve patient safety, reduce medication errors, identify potential interactions, and strengthen the therapeutic relationship.
As nurses, we have always been educators, advocates, and trusted professionals. Cannabis education is simply another opportunity to fulfill those roles. When we replace assumptions with knowledge and judgment with curiosity, we create better outcomes for our patients and strengthen our profession.
One way to remember our responsibility is through the acronym C. A. N. N. A. B. I. S.
C – Carry an understanding of cannabis basics.
A – Advance education by teaching one another about cannabis.
N – Never judge patients for their choices or experiences.
N – Nurses are the key to patient education and safety.
A – Adhere to state laws, regu lations, and organizational policies regarding cannabis.
B – Build confidence by discussing cannabis openly with colleagues and patients.
I – Inspire our profession to remain at the forefront of cannabis education.
S – Stay informed about emerging research, evolving laws, and changing standards of practice.
When we leave our bias at the door, we create space for honest conversations, evidence-based practice, and compassionate care. That is the foundation of nursing, and it should remain at the center of every discussion about cannabis.
References
American Cannabis Nurses Association( ACNA).( 2017) Cannabis Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice. pdf4pro. com / view / scope-and-standards-of-practice-forcannabis-nurses-50219a. html
National Council of State Boards of Nursing( NCSBN).( 2018, July). The NCSBN national nursing guidelines for medical marijuana. Journal of Nursing Regulation, 9( 2), S1 – S60. https:// www. ncsbn. org / public-files / The _ NCSBN _ National _ Nursing _ Guidelines _ for _ Medical _ Marijuana _ JNR _ July _ 2018. pdf
Bio
Kim King, MSN, RN, FNP, is a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner, educator, and community advocate with over 20 years of experience in Southern California. Her clinical background spans Intensive Care, Urgent Care, Women’ s Health, and Geriatrics— the areas in which she thrives and is most passionate about serving. Her mission remains clear: to elevate the standard of care, empower communities through knowledge, and ensure that every patient feels seen, heard, and valued.
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