NHRMC changes the way opioids are prescribed

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — New Hanover Regional Medical Centers has implemented new guidelines when it comes to how doctors prescribe opioids.

According to a news release, the new guidelines establish a system that allows for opioids to be used for effective pain management while setting more structure around when they are prescribed and for how long. The guidelines also call on providers to discuss the known risks and benefits of opioids with patients so they understand when to discontinue the use of opioids and how to dispose of unused medication.

“As practitioners, it’s universally acknowledged that we need to do more to prevent opioid misuse,” said Kevin Cannon, MD, who chaired the physician task force that developed the guidelines for NHRMC. “Now we’re helping practitioners with evidence-based guidelines to provide patients with the pain management they need while reducing the risks for misuse.”

The new guidelines ask for doctors to prescribe the lowest effective dose.  When patients are discharged, prescriptions for acute pain will be limited to three to five days. For pain following operations, prescriptions could be extended to seven days.

The guidelines are already in effect. NHRMC says they also align with the North Carolina STOP Act that goes into effect January 1.