You are preparing to discharge a 43-year-old male patient who has received treatment for a fracture of the right tibia. You provide the patient with a prescription for a narcotic analgesic to be used as needed for pain, along with information about the medication. The patient states, “I don’t need the prescription. My cousin just had surgery and didn’t take all of his pain medicine. I can just use his. That will be cheaper for me, anyway, since I don’t have insurance.” (Learning Objectives 3, 4, and 5)
1. a. Discuss the legal and therapeutic implications related to the patient taking narcotic analgesics that have been prescribed for another person.
b. With these implications in mind how should you respond to the patient?
2. How should you respond to the patient’s concern about the cost of his medication?
Instructions:
- Your discussion post should be at least 140 words and include at least one 100-word response to a classmate. Follow APA guidelines for references. At least one reference is required to support your response.
- a. Taking narcotic analgesics that have been prescribed for another person has both legal and therapeutic implications. From a legal perspective, it is illegal to use prescription medications that have not been specifically prescribed to you. It is considered drug diversion and can be subject to criminal charges. From a therapeutic perspective, each individual’s medical condition and pain management needs are unique. The medication prescribed for the patient’s cousin may not be appropriate or effective for the patient’s own condition. Different individuals may have different tolerances, allergies, or drug interactions that need to be taken into account when prescribing medications. Using someone else’s prescription medication can lead to inadequate pain relief, potential adverse effects, and even complications. Therefore, it is crucial for the patient to follow the prescribed treatment plan and only take medications that have been specifically prescribed for him.
b. In response to the patient’s statement, it is important to educate him about the legal and therapeutic implications of using someone else’s prescription medication. You can explain that it is illegal to use medications prescribed for another person and that it is considered drug diversion. Emphasize the importance of personalized treatment and the need for appropriate pain management for his specific condition. Offer to discuss alternative options for managing the cost of his medication, such as exploring generic alternatives, seeking financial assistance programs, or discussing the issue with the hospital’s social worker who may be able to provide guidance on available resources. Encourage the patient to prioritize his health and safety by following the prescribed treatment plan.
- In response to the patient’s concern about the cost of his medication, you can acknowledge his financial situation and empathize with his concerns. Express understanding that the cost of medication can be a burden for individuals without insurance coverage. However, emphasize that ensuring effective pain management is crucial for his recovery and overall well-being. Offer to explore alternative options to help reduce the financial burden. This can include discussing generic versions of the prescribed medication, which are often more affordable. Additionally, you can suggest looking into patient assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies or contacting local community resources that may provide support for medication costs. If available, involve a hospital social worker who can assist the patient in navigating the healthcare system and finding potential financial assistance options. Ultimately, the patient’s health and well-being should be the priority, and exploring all possible avenues to ensure appropriate pain management is essential.