How Are Patients Who Legally Use Medical Marijuana Treated When Hospitalized?

This article examines how acute care hospitals in U.S. states that have legalized medical marijuana manage inpatients’ use of the drug amid conflicting federal and state laws. Based on a national survey of 291 nurse leaders in such states, the study found that only a small percentage of hospitals allow patients access to medical marijuana during hospitalization, with most patients either having their marijuana confiscated or being switched to alternative prescription medications. Notably, nearly half of those substitutions involved opioid analgesics, despite many nurse leaders perceiving medical marijuana as a safer option. The findings highlight challenges hospitals face balancing federal legal restrictions with patient care needs and suggest further research is needed on the implications of substituting opioids for medical marijuana in inpatient settings.