How to maximize patient safety when RX'ing Opioids

This forum made possible through the generous support of SDN members, donors, and sponsors. Thank you.

drusso

Full Member
Moderator Emeritus
Lifetime Donor
Joined
Nov 21, 1998
Messages
12,547
Reaction score
6,932
PM R. 2015 Nov;7(11S):S225-S235. doi: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2015.08.016.
How to Maximize Patient Safety When Prescribing Opioids.
Kirpalani D1.
Author information

Abstract
Opioid prescribing and deaths in the United States have increased exponentially in the past couple of decades. This increase has occurred amidst growing awareness of the lack of long-term efficacy of opioids, as well as the significant long- and short-term risks associated with these medications. The scope of the opioid epidemic has led to the development of extensive clinical screening and monitoring tools recommended for health care providers who prescribe opioids to patients for chronic nonmalignant pain. The purpose of this review is to summarize the latest guidelines and evidence that will assist in maximizing patient safety while using chronic opioid therapy as part of pain management.

Copyright © 2015 American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

http://www.pmrjournal.org/article/S1934-1482(15)00996-X/abstract

Members don't see this ad.
 
  • Like
Reactions: 1 user
Not mentioned in the article but I believe mandatory screening for OSA should be performed. All high risk patients should have a home sleep study. Problem is the high number of undiagnosed OSA patients and the delay in getting seen by sleep doctor after they test positive.
 
Top