By the end of the rotation, the Addiction Medicine resident will be able to:
Medical Expert
Medical Assessment
Understand the epidemiology of co-occurring medical and substance use conditions.
Demonstrate an understanding of the differential diagnosis of medical symptoms in the setting of ongoing substance use, including the effects of substance use to mimic medical conditions.
Know the effects of the substance use on the medical condition and its treatment, as well as the impact of medical conditions on the treatment of the substance use condition.
Perform a physical examination to evaluate the patient’s general health status with special attention to physical manifestations of substance use disorders, including intoxication and withdrawal.
Integrate multiple sources of data into a diagnostic assessment.
Complete a comprehensive addiction assessment, and make a complete diagnosis of all substance use disorders present, and note pertinent negatives in medically/surgically/obstetrically hospitalized patients or in the Emergency Department.
Clinical Judgement and Management
Medically manage complications from alcohol withdrawal including alcohol withdrawal seizures and Delerium Tremens where indicated
Make informed post-treatment referrals for patients with a variety of substance use disorders and complicated co-occurring disorders (addiction, psychiatric, and medical problems).
Demonstrate competence in induction onto buprenorphine and methadone during an inpatient encounter.
Communicator
Demonstrate the ability to develop a basic plan for the patient that incorporates the input of the patient
Discuss the patient's beliefs, concerns, illness experience and specifically focuses on the patient's expectations in terms of pain relief and improved function
Collaborator
Actively seek out and acts upon both positive and negative feedback from colleagues, other health care workers and patients and their families
Work well with other team members to prevent misunderstanding, manage difference and resolve conflict
Leader
Provide effective direction and coaching to junior learners.
Demonstrate thoughtful and responsible use of resources in the provision of patient care, allowing for comprehensive and necessary evaluation while avoiding unnecessary interventions.
Effectively leads or contributes to the health care team; delegates and distributes tasks fairly; uses time wisely
Health Advocate
Demonstrate understanding of the importance of the use of medical interpreters when indicated
Advocate effectively for the biopsychosocial needs of patients and their families within the health care system and community
Scholar
Critically appraise medical information by asking relevant questions and determining which information is reliable. Successfully integrates information from a variety of sources.
Demonstrate an awareness of personal limitations, seeking advice when necessary. Accepts advice graciously.
Professional
Demonstrate a commitment to carrying out professional responsibilities and adherence to ethical principles.
Demonstrate compassion, integrity, and respect for others.
Appropriately report patients to the Ministry of Transportation where indicated and informs patients of same.
