Application of an Opioid Risk Assessment Tool for Patients with Pain Presenting to the Emergency Department with Drug-Seeking Behaviors

Authors

Darian L. Stephens, University of Texas Health Science Center at HoustonFollow

Author Biographical Info

BSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner student specializing in psychiatry.

Date of Doctor of Nursing Practice Project Completion

Summer 7-29-2024

Faculty Advisor

Dr. Marie McBee

Abstract

PURPOSE The purpose of this quality improvement project was to introduce the Screener and Opioid Assessment for Patients with Pain- Revised (SOAPP-R) tool to identify patients in the emergency department (ED) at risk for opioid abuse.

BACKGROUND The project was implemented in a 13-bed freestanding ED that can treat medical emergencies as well as provide substance abuse detoxification services.

METHODOLOGY A systematic approach that combined quantitative and qualitative data was used during the pre-implementation and implementation periods. The clinical staff was educated on the process of implementing the SOAPP-R tool. Those who were identified as at risk for opioid abuse had discussions with the provider and were referred to the High Alert Committee (HAC). Data was collected using the paper screening tool, electronic health record (EHR), and a password-encrypted spreadsheet. Changes were made during the implementation process using the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) method.

RESULTS There was a 45.83% increase in screening rates for patients over the age of 18 who presented with pain in the ED. 3 patients utilized our detoxification program for substance abuse following discussions with the provider and HAC about their high-risk scores and other factors.

IMPLICATIONS Introducing a risk assessment tool could be used as a preventative measure to identify patients at risk of opioid abuse prior to receiving opioid medications in the ED. Using a screening tool allows the provider to address patient concerns, facilitating patient-centered treatment plans based on HAC recommendations.

Keywords

Opioid, Pain, Drug-Seeking, Emergency Department, Risk Assessment, Abuse, Substance Abuse, Detox

Recommended Citation

Darian L. Stephens, "Application of an Opioid Risk Assessment Tool for Patients with Pain Presenting to the Emergency Department with Drug-Seeking Behaviors" (2024). Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract. 134.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/dnp_abstract/134