Downloadable Program Materials
Overview
As part of a randomized trial aimed at reducing opioids post-surgery, we conducted open-ended, structured interviews to understand the educational needs of patients undergoing total hip and total knee arthroplasty (THA/TKA).
About the Study
We interviewed health care providers about their approach with THA/TKA patients regarding pain management and barriers to opioid titration, and we asked them for recommendations about educational materials to support pain management and opioid reduction. We interviewed patients about their experiences, understanding, and beliefs surrounding opioids, and asked for their recommendations as well. A qualitative methodologist conducted interviews and content analysis to identify key themes.
Provider and patient recommendations for educational content included the following:
- Provide clear descriptions of how opioids work in the body, how to taper, nonopioid pain management options, and problems from overuse.
- Include messaging on how long to expect to use opioids and the type of pain to expect.
- Provide a visual timeline to illustrate opioid tapering and exercise expectations.
- Emphasize that pain management is multimodal, and stress the balance between opioids for recovery versus overuse.
- Provide educational messaging multiple times prior to and after surgery.
Findings & Dissemination
Patients and providers agreed that clearly stated verbal and written messaging is needed beyond what has typically been done regarding opioid expectations. Our findings appear in the following publication: “A qualitative study to develop materials educating patients about opioid use before and after total hip or total knee arthroplasty,” Journal of Opioid Management, January/February 2018.
The FLOOD study was funded by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA contract number: HHSF223201400146C.
Program Materials
We are making our patient education materials and pharmacist script available for general use. We encourage you to employ or adapt these materials in your own research and/or clinical practice.
Materials to be used before surgery:
Materials to be used after surgery:
Pharmacist script to be used after surgery:
Photocopy and Use
Although these materials are copyrighted, we are suspending copyright limitations so that you can make duplicate copies. However, you are prohibited from selling any of these materials or distributing them in order to make a profit. Your downloading of these materials constitutes your acknowledgement and acceptance of these terms.
If you use or modify materials, please cite as follows: the FLOOD (FDA: Lowering Orthopaedic Opioid Dosing) Study, Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, David Smith, PhD, RPh (Principal Investigator)