Pain Assessment and Narcotic Abuse in Veterans
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Authors
Vaillencourt, Caitlin J.
Petrillo, Stephanie G.
Thomas, Zakiya K.
Prince, Shanneek A.
Issue Date
2020
Type
Presentation
Language
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
Narcotic substance abuse is resulting from previously deployed veterans suffering from pain, which contributes to the overall opioid crisis in America. Our research question is, in veterans, what is the effect of pain on narcotic abuse? This topic has been widely discussed and is gaining research; however, many facilities lack the knowledge and resources to adequately assess pain in veterans. A study found that 32% of veterans had at least one opioid prescribed for pain management. We obtained our information through a systematic review of literature. More education on pain relief alternatives should be taught to health care providers to prevent the prolonged suffering of veterans. We created a protocol that that will be useful in helping nurses to determine when opioid use is appropriate and when to use alternative options.