In my practice I have encountered several instances of objectively addicted pts being prescribed massive amounts of narcotic medications. May I make it clear that these are not pts with low pain tolerances, these are confessed addicts with telltale signs and symptoms of narcotic addiction. They will manipulate, exaggerate symptoms, fabricate symptoms, and will go to great lengths to have more meds.
My question/comment is this: After all physical causes of pain are ruled out, isn't it simply enabling to allow this population to remain admitted with increasing amounts of pain meds to satisfy ever increasing self reports of pain?
Perhaps our mantra of "pain is whatever the pt says it is" should be modified to "pain is whatever the pt says it is until objective signs prove pt reports of pain to be unreasonable."?
I am. I work on the a diagnosis unit so I get clients with mental illness and/or addictions along with detox. I have handed out my fair share of Librium for etoh WD and clonidine for opiate wd. I do not hold meds just because and I am sorry my message came across that I did. That is appalling!!
Ok, thanks for clarifying.
I agree that working with people with narcotic addictions can be very draining. Especially on a busy shift. And then there's that sinking feeling when you see a frequent flier return.
I think most nurses know what that's like and can sympathize with the feeling of frustration.
Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.
This thread is TWO years old and it is always good to revisit these topics we need to remember that we all do not work the same areas and that the goals of treatment are different.
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BrandonLPN, LPN
3,358 Posts
Ok, thanks for clarifying.
I agree that working with people with narcotic addictions can be very draining. Especially on a busy shift. And then there's that sinking feeling when you see a frequent flier return.
I think most nurses know what that's like and can sympathize with the feeling of frustration.