Why you should read this article:

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To enhance your understanding of the complex issues in relation to managing pain in hospital patients with opioid use disorder

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To recognise the stigma that may be experienced by patients with opioid use disorder

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To consider strategies you could use in your practice to improve pain management in patients with opioid use disorder

This article explores the challenges and barriers to the effective nursing management of pain in patients with a history of opioid use disorder. It also identifies recommendations for improving patient care and possible areas for further research. The author examined the relevant literature, which revealed that patients with opioid use disorder may experience stigmatisation by nurses; such negative attitudes are often in conflict with nurses’ professional and ethical duties. This issue is compounded by a lack of knowledge and understanding of dependence, addiction and withdrawal. It was also identified that patients often recognise the effects of stigma and this can cause resentment, frustration and anxiety, in some cases leading to aggressive or disruptive behaviours that reinforce negative stereotypes of people who use opioids. A breakdown in the nurse-patient relationship can result in suboptimal pain management in this often-marginalised patient group. Therefore, effective pain management relies on a nurse-patient relationship that minimises anxiety, as well as multidisciplinary team collaboration.