patient. Surgeons tend to give patients an ample supply so they don't
call their offices complaining of pain.
Even today, with the addiction and overdose problem showing no
signs of abating, many patients are discharged with a prescription for
30 or more prescription painkillers when a fraction of that number
will suffice. Nobody needs a prescription for that many Vicodin,
hydrocodone or oxycodone for post-surgical pain. Yes, patients
should take opioids for the worst pain, but they should only take them
for a day or two. There are effective pain management alternatives
and many people don't need opioids at all, or at least should drastical-
ly reduce the amount they take.
What we're telling patients
Last month, the American Society of Anesthesiolo-gists (ASA) offered
patients 5 recommendations for coping with pain and discomfort as
they recover from surgery. We're sharing them with you here to rein-
force the importance of giving patients the appropriate amount of
post-op pain medication.
Ask about alternatives. Opioids should be taken only when in
extreme pain. Medications such as ibuprofen (Motrin), naproxen
(Aleve) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) can effectively manage pain and
soreness. While it's never a good idea to rely on any type of pain pills
for too long, these medications are not addictive and are far less risky
than opioids.
Manage your expectations. Everyone feels pain differently, but
it's important to realize that soreness and discomfort after sur-
gery are normal and will improve within a day or two. These sensa-
tions are less severe than pain, which is usually sharp or intense.
1
2
Anesthesia Alert
AA
3 0 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • J a n u a r y 2 0 1 7
