National Guidance to Support Youth Substance Use Health in Pediatric Hospitals

Youth substance use is prevalent in Canada: in 2023-2024 22% of students in Grade 7-12 reported alcohol use, 15% reported vaping (with nicotine or other unknown content) and 12% reported cannabis use in the past 30 days. Harms from substance use can be chronic and far reaching to multiple facets of life, but every care interaction with youth, regardless of the presenting condition and even if brief, is an opportunity to support them compassionately.

The National Guidance to Support Youth Substance Use Health in Canadian Pediatric Hospitals is designed for use in pediatric emergency rooms, outpatient and inpatient settings. It was developed in collaboration with the Canadian Advisory Group on Youth Substance Use and with input from youth, parents and caregivers.

It offers recommendations to enhance the quality, consistency and effectiveness of pediatric substance use healthcare and ultimately improve outcomes for youth and families across Canada.

Topics include:

• Screening and assessment
• Response options such as withdrawal management, initial and psychosocial interventions, harm reduction, pharmacotherapy and ongoing supports
• Key considerations for quality care
• Plus:
  • A care pathway to help with clinical decision making
  • An appendix with screening and assessment tools, and psychosocial interventions

The Guidance is especially helpful if you are a:

• Service provider
• Clinical leader or administrator
• Policy maker