7561E Management of Opioid Use Disorder in the Hospitalized Adolescent: Tips for the Pediatric Nurse-Q&A from 10-29

Q&A from 10-29

Pdf Summary

The lecture on managing opioid use disorder in hospitalized adolescents addresses several key topics related to treatment and care protocols. The Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS) is a pivotal tool in evaluating withdrawal symptoms and guiding medication adjustments, such as buprenorphine dosages, which typically range between 16-24 mg for effectiveness. The COWS score is utilized alongside the patient's drug use history to prevent precipitated withdrawal. <br /><br />Patient safety requires 1:1 sitter coverage, especially for minors, due to the risks associated with withdrawal discomfort and potential flight. Visitation policies restrict access to primary caregivers only, to maintain a focused support environment. Limited phone access is granted, primarily through hospital landlines, to maintain contact with caregivers while minimizing external influences.<br /><br />Buprenorphine is available in various formulations, including injectable Sublocade for subcutaneous administration in the abdomen and sublingual versions, offering flexibility in treatment administration.<br /><br />Information dissemination to resident physicians is underway, with efforts to develop a pathway to guide care management. Additionally, resources and instructions tailored to inpatient settings are being considered for inclusion in discharge summaries, with coordination required from leadership and the EPIC team for implementation.<br /><br />Overall, the approach emphasizes comprehensive care, combining medical, safety, and communication strategies to support adolescents with opioid use disorder effectively during hospitalization.

Keywords

opioid use disorder

hospitalized adolescents

Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale

COWS score

buprenorphine dosages

patient safety

Sublocade

care management

discharge summaries

EPIC team