The Role of Opioids in the Conundrum of Care for Persons in Pain

If we can say anything for certain about caring for persons in pain over the past decade is that it has prompted concern and confusion on how to provide the best care. Consider the following: Do we have an opioid epidemic or an opioid crisis in the United States? Does the difference in these words matter? What about the “other” less publicized public health crisis; chronic pain; where did that conversation go? Are opioid analgesics good or bad to treat people in pain? Should nurses be prepared in pain care, addiction care or both? What are the differences in state policies that govern and guide nursing practice around pain management? What is the best evidence to support opioid pain control in acute care? These are just a few questions that influence nurse's decision making and practice.
Source: Pain Management Nursing - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: Editorial Source Type: research