CARN-AP case studies
CARN-AP · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The Certified Addictions Registered Nurse – Advanced Practice (CARN-AP) is a specialty credential for nurses prepared at the graduate level - typically nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and other advanced practice nurses - who assess, diagnose, and treat substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. It signals that the holder can practice independently or within an interprofessional team across withdrawal management, pharmacotherapy for substance use disorders, integrated psychotherapy, and long-term recovery support. The CARN-AP case studies are 5 cases and about 3,577 words.
1The Negative EtG and the Wife Who Disagrees
Marcus, 38, self-refers after his wife threatens to leave. He reports drinking "two or three beers" most evenings and denies any recent heavy use.
768 words, about 4 min2Fentanyl, Alprazolam, and a First Buprenorphine Visit
Danny, 29, has smoked illicitly manufactured fentanyl (about 1–2 g/day) for two years and wants to start buprenorphine today at your outpatient clinic. He last used 8 hours ago and is in mild withdrawal (COWS 9).
672 words, about 3 min3The "Six Months Clean" Rule and Trauma Work
Priya, 45, has PTSD from a childhood assault and severe alcohol use disorder. She is three weeks abstinent, takes oral naltrexone 50 mg daily, attends three AA meetings a week, and asks to start prolonged exposure therapy now.
699 words, about 3 min4The Probation Officer, the PCP, and a Shared Record
Robert, 52, completes a five-day medically managed alcohol withdrawal stay. He is discharged on naltrexone 50 mg daily and chlordiazepoxide 25 mg as needed for a short taper.
714 words, about 4 min5A 16-Year-Old, a Frightened Parent, and a School Call
Jordan, 16, was brought in by his mother after she found foil and a lighter in his room. Alone with you, he discloses smoking fentanyl for four months and one instance of injection.
724 words, about 4 min