Our adult Opioid Prescribing Recommendations are designed for patients with no preoperative opioid use and are not intended for patients taking opioids preoperatively.
Along with published studies and expert consensus, our recommendations are informed by patient-reported outcomes (PROs) on opioid consumptions, pain control, and satisfaction. The levels of evidence used to draw conclusions about opioid prescribing are clearly outlined, so providers can make educated determinations about prescribing and care – while taking individual patient needs into consideration.
When an opioid is needed after surgery, use the OPEN prescribing recommendations as the foundation for a shared decision-making conversation with the patient to determine the best prescription size.
It’s important to note that these are not rigid rules that must be adhered to, but rather recommendations. Starting form a standardized approach and then allowing for individualization helps promote both equity and patient-centeredness.
Use OPEN’s evidence-based prescribing recommendations for tailored pain management after surgery in adult patients.
As a healthcare provider, learn evidence-based approaches to help manage your patient’s pain after surgery.
Learn how to prepare for surgery and to help manage pain after surgery.
