Discharge and home analgesia

This survey identified gaps in post-operative analgesia guidance and opioid stewardship. Patients lacked clear advice on analgesia scheduling, appropriate opioid use and safe disposal. This is of particular concern given the dangers of unsued opioids in the home In an opioid-naïve patient, this can be a fatal dose. This is important in this group given that  MBRRACE: death by suicide is a leading cause of maternal death. In response, we have engaged with pharmacy colleagues to clarify disposal pathways and plan to introduce a patient information guide using a traffic-light system for analgesia use, alongside clear disposal instructions for unused oral morphine. The initial study was conducted prior to implementation of MHRA guidance on post operative long acting opioids and our prescribing protocol has now changed. A repeat survey is planned following implementation and updated post operative pain relief protocols.