Abstract
Inadequate pain management is a major problem in the U.S. The problem of pain management becomes even more complicated when the patient is a person with a history of, or current problem with an addictive disorder. Provider fears of addiction, lack of knowledge of both pain management and treatment of addictive disorders, as well as stigma around the use of opiates, have created barriers to adequate pain treatment for this population. The aim of this paper is to review the literature related to the problem, provide definitions related to the co-occurring problems and present strategies for management of pain in this population. Strategies will include ways to address the stigma and nursing attitudes towards those with addictive disorders and pain.
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