L Parran1, C Pederson. 1. Blood and Marrow Transplant Department, Fairview University Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN, USA. lparran1@fairview.org
Abstract
PURPOSE/ OBJECTIVES: To describe an opioid taper algorithm for hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients and its development. DATA SOURCES: Nonresearch-based published guidelines, published research on opioid withdrawal symptoms, clinical experience, and multidisciplinary consultant recommendations. DATA SYNTHESIS: Many HCT recipients receive opioid therapy for several weeks and thus become physically dependent on opioids. If opioids are discontinued abruptly or tapered too rapidly, patients may experience discomfort from withdrawal symptoms. An algorithm can guide clinicians in providing patient care. CONCLUSIONS: No research-based opioid-taper guidelines exist in the literature; existing guidelines vary widely and are not specific to HCT recipients. Thus, the algorithm addresses a gap in the literature and also provides flexibility when dealing with patient discomfort. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Use of an algorithm may promote consistency of opioid tapering and patient comfort.
PURPOSE/ OBJECTIVES: To describe an opioid taper algorithm for hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients and its development. DATA SOURCES: Nonresearch-based published guidelines, published research on opioid withdrawal symptoms, clinical experience, and multidisciplinary consultant recommendations. DATA SYNTHESIS: Many HCT recipients receive opioid therapy for several weeks and thus become physically dependent on opioids. If opioids are discontinued abruptly or tapered too rapidly, patients may experience discomfort from withdrawal symptoms. An algorithm can guide clinicians in providing patient care. CONCLUSIONS: No research-based opioid-taper guidelines exist in the literature; existing guidelines vary widely and are not specific to HCT recipients. Thus, the algorithm addresses a gap in the literature and also provides flexibility when dealing with patient discomfort. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Use of an algorithm may promote consistency of opioid tapering and patient comfort.