Poisonings from opioid overdoses increase among teens and children – Researchers say
Muizat Hameed
John M. Daly, the co – chair of The American College of Surgeons (known as ACS) Patient Education Committee, has disclosed that the fatal poisonings from opioid overdoses are increasing among teens and children, thus warranting the need to address a safe and more effective pain control after surgery.
In his words, John said, “In collaboration with the American Paediatric Surgical Association (APSA), the American college of surgeons has created education to add materials for children ,their parents and professional caregivers to improve pain management for children after surgery and provide the basis for improved recovery. These materials are critical reading for all who care for children after operations or injury.”
The two associations of medical practitioners have recently published an education material for children, their parents and professional caregivers which would improve pain management and provide the basis for improved recovery.
John stated that, the resource, Safe and Effective Pain Control after Surgery for Children and Teens brochure, was thoroughly researched and recommended for surgeons and parents, to address appropriate pain management options for young surgical patients whose unique pain relief requires a careful attention.
“The brochure features a guide for parents and children that would help them decide when to take medications based on the type of activities performed post surgery. It also covers proper use of the medication in severe pain, storage and disposal techniques to lower the risks of misuse and diversion of opioid to inappropriate person,” he said.
The APSA president, Joseph P. Vacanti commended the initiative and is proud to collaborate with the ACS.
He said, “APSA is proud to have collaborated with the ACS on this important resource. Our care goes beyond the operating broom to ensure pediatric patients are comfortable after surgery and equally important that we create a space where families are comfortable asking about and understanding medication use, options and risks.”
David B. Hoyt, the ACS Executive Director added that, “it is important that surgeons be attentive to all phases of a patients surgical care, including pain control and management.”
“These new resources are a vital tool that will help surgeons work with parents to safeguard children’s care during the post – surgery phase and also provide a framework for a pre – surgery discussion between parents, young patients and surgeons,” he concluded.
