Managing your acute pain
Information about your pain medications and how to use them safely.
Pain is a personal experience that can sometimes be better managed by things other than medicine. Pain is not just a physical sensation. It is influenced by attitudes, beliefs and social factors, and can affect emotional and mental wellbeing.
This patient education pamphlet is a general guide for patients who are prescribed opioids for short-term acute pain relief. It has been developed by Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service as part of their Choosing Wisely Opioid Stewardship Program. The pamphlet encourages an informed discussion about the risks and potential benefits of opioids for acute pain, sets patient expectations around pain relief, increases understanding of possible side effects, and that opioids should only be used for a short period of time.
5 Questions
5 questions to ask your doctor or other healthcare provider to make sure you end up with the right amount of care.