Pain management in drug users

Substance users’ perspective of pain management in the acute care environment

“…Healthcare workers (including nurses) often carry predominant cultural attitudes, values and beliefs regarding illicit SU and those on methadone programmes (Ford, 2011;Happell, Carta, & Pinikahana, 2002;Happell & Taylor, 2001;McCreaddie & Davison, 2002;Morgan, 2006;Norman, 2001). Knowledge limitations (Ford, 2011;Norman, 2001) can infl uence healthcare workers' assessment and management of SU pain management needs (McCaffery & Ferrell, 1997).…”

Improve pain management in patients with substance abuse

“…The receiving RN initiates the initial assessment, which encompasses evaluation of the patient's condition, history of the presenting event, and vital signs to assist in determining severity of the condition. [16][17][18] Additional questions that are important for assessment and management include: What medications were taken? There are different scales used throughout the world, however, they all direct the clinician towards the common goal of prioritizing patients to provide optimal care with the appropriate resources employed.…”

“…18 It may take an increased amount to achieve a reduction in their pain level. It has been noted that the pain experienced by substance abusers is actually greater than the pain experienced by nonsubstance abusers.…”

“…18 Nevertheless, care Antagonist drugs must be administered judiciously because sudden reversal for a chronic opioid user can precipitate increased pain, agitation, and hypertension. 18 Nevertheless, care Antagonist drugs must be administered judiciously because sudden reversal for a chronic opioid user can precipitate increased pain, agitation, and hypertension.…”

“…18 Frequent monitoring is necessary to prevent complications, such as decreased gag reflex, aspiration, respiratory arrest and/or cardiovascular collapse. 18 Frequent monitoring is necessary to prevent complications, such as decreased gag reflex, aspiration, respiratory arrest and/or cardiovascular collapse.…”