The Holistic Cannabis Nurse Program

The Holistic Cannabis Nursing Program will take you through a deep dive into understanding the ancient medicine of cannabis, the intricacies of this holistic healing modality and the powerful role of a nurse within cannabinoid care. Cannabis‘ unique history of being first an ancient healing tool, then a prohibited substance (based on morality), to its re-emergence as holistic medicine has created excitement for those suffering from chronic health conditions (i.e. chronic pain). Having said this, there is still a complex landscape of resistance related to stigma that we need to navigate.

Ideally, nurses–and, more particularly those trained in cannabis care and the intricate endocannabinoid system–are perfectly positioned to hold space, provide guidance and education, and to advocate for individuals as they explore finding an effective safe cannabis regime to fit their needs. These needs can lay within any or all of the four domains – physical, mental, spiritual and emotional.

This 6 month self-paced program will consist of 16 modules + 1 bonus module. You can enroll in the self paced program at any time. The modules are divided into six different sections. Each module will include a set of suggested readings and videos to be reviewed prior to completing the module. 

You will be required to complete two assignments and one open-book exam to receive your Holistic Cannabis Nurse certification. If you are not able to complete the program in 6 months you will be subjected to a $150 monthly fee until completion. If there is a family or medical reason for not being able to complete the program please reach out as exemptions can be made.

You will be required to purchase the following two resources:

Required Textbook Clark, C. S. (2021). Cannabis: A handbook for nurses. Wolters Kluwer. 

Required Protocol Guide Theisen, E., & Byars, T. (2021). The Cannabinoid Protocol Guide. Radicle Health. https://radiclehealth.thinkific.com/courses/protocol-guide

The six different sections are expanded on below:

1. Equity – examines cannabis history, stigma, current policy and legalization and the impact on individuals healthcare providers and communities
2. Cannabis – learn about the anatomy, physiology and pharmacology of the Endocannabinoid system and cannabinoids
3. Evidence – role of evidenced informed nursing care; explore the current state of clinical research for common ailments
4. Nurse – briefly review and explore theories related to holistic nursing and basic nurse coaching techniques to enhance and support your interactions with individuals, as well as to  understand the importance of caring for yourself and your Endocannabinoid system as a nurse
5. Client – explore contraindications and special considerations for individuals considering cannabis use, how to put cannabinoid nursing care through the holistic nursing process and how to create suggested Endocannabinoid system protocols for individuals and document your interactions
6. DREAM BIG! this section will leave will have you feeling empowered and excited about the future role you could have as a cannabis trained nurse

Enhance your knowledge-base through creative assignments, while developing tools you can use in your practice, whether this is in an independent practice; to influence policy and change within current work environments; as a public educator and/or advocate; or, to support individuals in enhancing their quality of life in a powerful holistic way. The assignments consist of a written reflection, open book multiple choice exam and the final assignment will have you creating your own education guide for your practice. You are asked to teach this guide to a person or group and asked to reflect upon how the presentation went. 

Clinical research and the legal cannabis industry is in the infancy stage. Having nurses play a role in the evolving cannabis industry is a powerful way to honour the healing holistic potential of the cannabis plant while protecting public safety through trusted education.

Be a trailblazer and usher in this much needed specialty today!