The approach to opioid prescribing has shifted significantly in recent years due to the opioid epidemic. It is imperative that prescribers stay up-to-date on current best practices and regulations. This CME webinar is being offered to ensure that prescribers in Florida are using evidence-based clinical practice guidelines to make safer and more effective pain management decisions, including knowing when opioids are appropriate, how to determine safe dosages, and when to consider alternative pain management strategies.
After completing this training program, learners should be able to:
1. Explain the fundamental concepts of pain management, including definitions, etiology and mechanisms
2. Recognize the complexities of assessing pain, including risk factors for opioid misuse and addiction
3. Explain principles of appropriate opioid prescribing for pain, including initiation, titration, tapering, and discontinuation
4. Develop individualized pain treatment plans that incorporate therapeutic goals, pharmacologic options (including opioid-sparing approaches), and non-pharmacologic options
5. Implement strategies for the safe use of opioid therapy, including counseling patients and caregivers on safe use, storage, and disposal.
6. Recognize when referral to a pain specialist or other appropriate healthcare professional is necessary.