NewsOpioid Advisor

Ten EDs reduce opioid use by 36%

Share
By: American Nurse Today

Ten hospitals in Colorado participated in a 6-month pilot project (Colorado Opioid Safety Collaborative) to reduce opioid use when patients present to the emergency department (ED) with pain. Their goal was to reduce use by 15%, but instead the reduction was 36% on average. The overall decrease amounted to 35,000 fewer opioid doses than were prescribed during the same period in 2016.

When first-line painkillers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, didn’t work for patient pain, rather than turning to the usual second choice—opioids, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, or fentanyl—providers now try to less addictive alternatives, such ketamine and lidocaine.

According to Claire Duncan, a clinical nurse coordinator at Swedish Medical Center near Denver, the program requires a culture change. Staff are encouraged to change the conversation from pain medication only, to alternatives that help patients better understand and cope with their pain.

Source: npr.org/sections/health-shots/2018/02/23/587666283/these-10-ers-sharply-reduced-opioid-use-and-still-eased-pain

*Online Bonus Content: This has not been peer reviewed. The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or recommendations of the American Nurses Association, the Editorial Advisory Board members, or the Publisher, Editors and staff of American Nurse Journal.

Take the 2024 Nursing Trends and Salary Survey, available now through November 1st 2024

See Past Results
cheryl meeGet your free access to the exclusive newsletter of American Nurse Journal and gain insights for your nursing practice.

NurseLine Newsletter

  • Hidden

*By submitting your e-mail, you are opting in to receiving information from Healthcom Media and Affiliates. The details, including your email address/mobile number, may be used to keep you informed about future products and services.

Test Your Knowledge

Which of the following is correct regarding pulse oximetry?

More News