Opioids are effectively used to manage chronic or severe pain, however, the use of opioids requires careful oversight due to the risks of dependence, overdose and adverse side effects. Are you confident in your ability to manage pain effectively while minimising these risks?
This Ausmed Course provides healthcare professionals with evidence-based knowledge and strategies for the safe and appropriate use of opioids in pain management. Through a focus on opioid stewardship, the course will help ensure effective care, improve patient safety and address the complexities of opioid therapy to optimise outcomes.
Differentiate between opioid receptors and their effects on pain modulation.
Compare and contrast different types of opioids and their pharmacological properties.
Develop appropriate opioid administration and dosing strategies for various scenarios.
Identify common opioid side effects and develop strategies to prevent and manage them.
Implement opioid stewardship principles and navigate regulatory requirements in pain management including strategies for opioid overdose management.
Pharmacists, registered nurses, nurse practitioners, paramedics and other healthcare professionals across various healthcare settings.
In 2021, Australia experienced 1,788 drug-induced deaths, averaging 5 per day and representing 1.0% of all deaths. Opioids in particular, including heroin and pharmaceutical opioids, were involved in 58% of these cases. Since 2002, the rate of drug-induced deaths has increased by 3.5% annually, highlighting an ongoing public health challenge.
Despite high opioid prescribing rates, less than 5% of Australian hospitals have formal management programs for these medications. The implementation of stewardship programs seeks to address this gap by improving governance, policy, education, and monitoring practices related to analgesic use.
To equip healthcare professionals with essential knowledge and skills for the safe use of opioid analgesics in pain management, following effective analgesic stewardship programs.
Assign mandatory training and keep all your records in-one-place.
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