Duramorph

[DGMLPN]

I had back surgery 2-24-06 and I told them I could not take morphine due to it making me out of my head and locking my guts up. They gave me duramorph intracath in the spinal column...I was out of it for 3-4 days and developed an ileus. The "nurse" who was taking care of me on nights got tired of me pulling at my NG and IV's and thought he would "snow me" with the 50-100MG IM demerol the surgeon ordered post-op....At that time the hospital had NO protocols for holding post-op narcs. Would you consider this negligence or malpractice?

[Ann RN]

I had back surgery 2-24-06 and I told them I could not take morphine due to it making me out of my head and locking my guts up. They gave me duramorph intracath in the spinal column...I was out of it for 3-4 days and developed an ileus. The "nurse" who was taking care of me on nights got tired of me pulling at my NG and IV's and thought he would "snow me" with the 50-100MG IM demerol the surgeon ordered post-op....At that time the hospital had NO protocols for holding post-op narcs. Would you consider this negligence or malpractice?

I think this is not the right place to ask. We as nurses are not licensed to give that type of advice.

[Jolie, BSN]

I am sorry for your experience and sincerely hope that you have recovered fully from your surgery.

We are not able to give medical or legal advice on this BB. Please contact a local physician if you believe you could benefit from a second medical opinion, or an attorney to discuss the legal issues of your care.

[DGMLPN]

I know...I shouldnt have posted it like I did....but am just wondering the protocol involved with duramorph intrathecal

[VivaLasViejas, ASN, RN]

As the above poster said, your question requires an answer that is beyond the scope of nursing practice. You need to talk with a doctor or nurse-anesthetist, and possibly an attorney as well if you are considering legal action.

Sorry. Best of luck to you in straightening things out.