Date of Award

Spring 5-7-2021

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Karen Johnson

Second Advisor

Kristi Frisbee

Third Advisor

Rebecca Butler

Abstract

This project evaluated the knowledge of the public, healthcare providers, and nurses regarding opioid induced hyperalgesia (OIH). OIH is an elevated pain response because of high dosage or chronic use of opioids. Opioids are a problem not only in the United States but throughout the world; addiction, constipation, and overdose are the most frequently mentioned consequences of opioids. Little is known about other consequences to the body caused by chronic or high dose opioid usage, such as OIH. This project sought to increase awareness and caution against the utilization of opioids by patients and their healthcare providers and nurses practice. Two healthcare providers and nurses’ education sessions were held via Zoom meetings with the material presented based on results from a Facebook survey that was used to assess current knowledge. Pre- and post-session surveys were given to healthcare providers and nurses to evaluate their education and current and future practices. Upon evaluation of the data, it showed that over half the participants were unable to correctly define OIH, that the majority were nurse practitioners in the clinic, and back pain was the most frequent reason for opioids utilized in their practice, with Tramadol being the biggest culprit. Post-session surveys displayed a decrease in the number of healthcare providers and nurses that would utilize opioids for back pain.

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