Here are six ways:
1. Ensure the benefits outweigh the risks. Refrain from prescribing opioids for new patients with chronic noncancer pain unless you deem the expected benefits outweigh the potential risks. Instead, try nonpharmacological therapy and nonopioid pharmacological therapy.
2. Prescribe lower effective doses. For postoperative care and acutely injured patients, limit the amount of dose so you are prescribing the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration. The patient’s pain should be severe enough to need opioids.
3. Register and utilize the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.
4. Work compassionately.
5. Help patients. If a patient suffers from an opioid use disorder, help them get evidence-based treatment.
6. Co-prescribe naloxone. Co-prescribe naloxone for patients at risk for overdose.
More articles on quality & infection control:
How the point of patient engagement has evolved — 6 insights
Integrative virtual clinics enhance care quality — 6 findings
10 simple ways physicians can boost patient satisfaction
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.