Pharmacologic management of pain: the surgeon's responsibility.
Historically, surgeons have had to witness their patients' pain probably longer than any specialty within medicine. Pain relief in palliative care forms the cornerstone of a comprehensive pattern of care that encompasses the physical, psychologic, social, and spiritual aspects of suffering. In a society that lives by mottoes, such as "no pain, no gain," and "just say no to drugs," pervasive subconscious barriers to effective pain relief exist. In being responsible for effective pain management to the patient, the surgeon must first set aside his or her own beliefs and attitudes regarding pain and its control and be open to change.
Ray
J B
JB
Clinical Pharmacist, Pain/Palliative Care, Department of Pharmacy and Drug Information Services, Hamot Medical Center, Erie, Pennsylvania 16550, USA.
D000700:Analgesics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001293:Attitude to Death; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D013502:General Surgery; D006801:Humans; D010146:Pain / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010147:Pain Measurement; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000379:methods*; D010819:Physician's Role; D011287:Prejudice; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013727:Terminal Care / Q000379:methods*
D000700:Analgesics