The patient was discharged to a skilled nursing facility and is receiving physical therapy and occupational therapy 6 days each week. Current Meds: Aspirin 81 mg daily; atorvastatin 80 mg at bedtime; multivitamin 1 daily; gabapentin 100 mg three times daily; pantoprazole 40 mg daily, tamsulosin 0.4 mg daily, heparin 5000 units twice daily until discharged home, hydrocodone/acetaminophen 5/325 mg every 6 hours as needed for pain. Pain Assessment: Patient reports pain of 7 out of 10; worse with movement. Physical therapy notes indicate patient is unable to complete therapy goals due to complaints of pain.
- Based on this information, what would you recommend to optimize pain control?
- Prescribers play a critical role in prescription drug misuse and abuse prevention. What steps can be taken to identify signs of dependence and abuse and what education can you provide to the patient regarding the negative effects of medication misuse?
- What additional recommendations would you have at this time regarding pain management?
- Are there any other therapeutic issues that should be addressed?