Pain Controlling Pain: A Case Study

Superior Essays
Controlling pain is one of the most important measures that is done in a health care setting. Often times health care providers turn to administering stronger doses of powerful analgesics such as opioids to control a patient’s pain level. However, with the recent epidemic sweeping through the nation regarding opioids, it is important that alternative pain management measures are examined and performed by all the staff. Alternative therapies help reduce anxiety and promote recovery. Patients are often worried about becoming addicted to opioids prescribed for their pain. In addition, some side effects of these powerful analgesics also concern many patients. Opioid analgesics cause dizziness, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, constipation, as …show more content…
Again, aimed at addressing anxiety which “may intensify the perception of pain” (Economidou et al, 2012, page 366). There have been quite a few studies that suggest listening to music is an effective intervention in pain management. A study from the Health Science Journal reported that “patients exposed to music had significantly lower pain intensity postoperatively” (Economidou et al, 2012, page 369). Patients not only had experienced less pain on the first day after surgery, but they also reported “less fatigue on the day of discharge and patients were mobilized significantly earlier” (Economidou et al, 2012, page 370). By providing a calming and relaxing playlist, patients benefited by not only by coping with their pain, but also reducing their stress and anxiety, which provided better outcomes for these …show more content…
By collaborating with Interventional Therapy, nurses on Floor 10CD are able to offer mind and body services such as Reiki and massage for patients. Other alternative pain management therapies that are offered to patients include hot and cold therapy, emotional support, healing touch, and guided imagery. Additionally, patients who are post-operative are offered small stereo speakers that can be connected to a phone or MP3 device to provide music therapy. Patients also have the option to schedule visits with pet therapy by using the closed circuit television program called iTigr. Through these services, patients have alternative ways for to find relief in their pain and

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