Understanding Acute Pain vs. Chronic Pain

☐ Know the difference between acute pain (short-term, injury/surgery) and chronic pain (long-term, ongoing conditions)

☐ Understand that appropriate pain meds used for acute pain are not the same as recreational use

☐ Recognize the dangers of avoiding medication due to fear of addiction

Why Treating Acute Pain Matters

☐ Pain is a biological signal—don’t ignore it

☐ Untreated pain can delay healing, raise blood pressure, and affect sleep

☐ Avoid “toughing it out” if it worsens recovery or function

Opioids for Severe Acute Pain (Used Short-Term, In-Hospital)

☐ Morphine (IV): Common for surgery, may cause sedation/constipation

☐ Fentanyl (IV): Very strong and fast-acting; used in ICUs

☐ Hydromorphone (Dilaudid): Stronger than morphine, fast relief, less sedating

☐ Confirm if opioid use is needed short-term
☐ Ensure you have a plan for when IV meds stop
☐ Don’t expect to feel fine right after stopping IV meds—plan a transition

Transition Planning Before Discharge

☐ Begin oral pain medications before leaving the hospital

☐ Monitor how oral meds affect pain

☐ Adjust dosage or type based on patient feedback

• ☐Educate on:

             ☐ Side effects

☐ Dosage timing

☐ Interaction with other medications

☐ Ensure no gap between hospital and home pain relief

Moderate Pain Medications (Step-Down Options)

☐ Tramadol: For moderate pain, less addictive but still requires monitoring

☐ Acetaminophen with Codeine: Combines Tylenol + mild opioid

☐ Gabapentin: For nerve pain, especially post-orthopedic/spinal surgery

 Mild Pain Medications (Typically at Home)

☐ NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen): Reduce inflammation + pain

☐ Acetaminophen (Tylenol): For lingering discomfort

How to Advocate for Yourself or Loved Ones

☐ Ask: What medications am I getting? What’s the plan?

☐ Speak Up: Tell your provider if pain is not controlled or if you’re afraid of addiction

☐ Expect a Plan: Know your meds, schedule, and follow-up needs before going home

☐ Use Your Voice: Ask questions, clarify unclear instructions, and express concerns

Final Reminders

☐ Taking pain meds for a few days ≠ addiction

☐ Recovery requires comfort, sleep, mobility, and peace of mind

☐ Fear is valid—but so is proper treatment

☐ Your healing matters. You deserve support, not suffering