How to Use This Unit
This unit provides guidance for instructors on how to teach BHSSs evidence-based harm reduction strategies to effectively engage patients along a spectrum of use (i.e., substance, quantity-frequency, route of administration) and readiness for change (e.g., goals ranging from reducing substance-related harm, reducing use, achieving abstinence). These strategies are derived from the primary components of brief, evidence-based harm reduction treatment (HaRT).
This unit contains didactic information, example activities and assessments, and resources for further learning. The didactic information provides basic definitions of harm reduction, strategies for engaging patients in conversation around substance use, means of eliciting harm reduction and quality-of-life (QoL) goals, and safer use strategies. Example activities and assessments demonstrate how to engage students and reinforce learning. The additional resources contain suggested external websites, books, articles, and other resources to deepen learning and provide the scientific evidence base for the strategies in this unit.
The resources below were developed by UW BHSS faculty and staff:
Figures for LO-1 Key Teaching Points
Figure 1: HaRT Counseling Components
Figure 2: Use Reduction vs Harm Reduction
Sample Activities/Assessments for LO-1
Activity: LO-1 Script for Introducing the Rationale for HaRT
Figures for LO-2 Key Teaching Points
Figure 3: HaRT Heartset
Specific Resources for LO-2
Resource: List of Websites
Figures for LO-3 Key Teaching Points
Figure 4: Intro to HaRT Components
Specific Resources for LO-4
Resource: LO-4 Example Constellation of Use
Specific Resources for LO-5
Resource: Example Script of Eliciting Goals
Specific Resources for LO-6
Resource: Example of Affirmation and Psychoeducation
Resource: Example of Asking Permission
Figures for LO-6 Key Teaching Points
Figure 5: Relative Risk Hierarchy of Alcoholic Beverages
Figure 6: Relative Risk Hierarchy of Injection Sites
Figure 7: Relative Risk Hierarchy of Nicotine Products
Figures for LO-7 Key Teaching Points
Figure 8: Short Inventory of Problems (SIP)
Figure 9: Simple Chart to Create a Trajectory to Record Patient Progress
Figures and Specific Resources for LO-8
Resource: Examples of Eliciting Goals
Figure 10: Stair Step Approach to Honing Harm Reduction Goals
Figure 11: Example Way of Recording Goals and Progress Towards Them
Figure 12: