An observational study of discharge analgesia and analgesic outcomes after discharge following surgery in Southern Adelaide Local Health Network: A prospective pilot study

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Many patients experience pain after surgery, but this can vary significantly between individuals. With patients being discharged from hospital following surgery earlier than in previous generations, managing pain after discharge has become an important part caring for surgical patients. Frequently, this includes the prescription of opioid medications on discharge. While opioid medications are widely used to treat pain after surgery, there is now a large amount of evidence demonstrating that when prescribed on discharge opioids can contribute to a range of adverse outcomes for patients and the community more broadly. This presents a challenge to clinicians, who need to balance these risks while meeting the pain relief needs of patients. The purpose of this study is to capture accurate data on the nature of opioid prescribing and usage on discharge within Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, data which has previously never been captured or reported. We are aiming to assess if; 1. Opioid analgesia prescribed on discharge following surgery undertaken in SALHN is undertaken in accordance with current clinical guidelines. 2. Opioid analgesia prescribed on discharge following surgery undertaken in Southern Adelaide Local Health Network (SALHN) is adequate for patient analgesia requirements. 3. Opioid analgesia prescribed on discharge following surgery undertaken in SALHN results in unused prescription opioid in the community. 4. The volume of opioid prescribed on discharge could be reduced without increasing rates of patients needing to return to hospital as a consequence of pain OR patients experiencing pain limiting function when they are unable to access care.

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