A two-hour cannabis education module significantly improved nurse practitioner knowledge and willingness to discuss cannabis

Significant improvement in all content areas from pre- to post-test, with a mean improvement of 39.3%. Greatest increases were for metabolism, pharmacokinetics, and drug-drug interactions. At 3-month follow-up (63% response rate), 52% said the CE changed their attitudes, 92% were now likely to ask patients about cannabis, and 84% were likely to counsel patients about it.

Nationally distributed 2-hour continuing education module for nurse practitioners. Pre- and post-testing (n=289) plus 3-month follow-up survey (n=184, 63%). Content covered pharmacodynamics, law, evidence-based use, metabolism, drug interactions, and adverse reactions.

Nurse practitioners are cannabis authorizing providers in many states and serve as primary care clinicians. If a 2-hour module can significantly improve knowledge and change practice behavior, it represents a scalable solution to the provider education gap.

The finding that 86% had not yet applied the knowledge at 3-month follow-up, despite increased willingness, suggests that knowledge alone may not be sufficient to change practice. Systemic barriers may also need addressing.

Self-selected participants likely more interested in cannabis education. No control group. Self-reported practice changes not verified. 37% lost to follow-up. Short follow-up period for practice change assessment.