Chronic Pain Management: Non-Opioid Therapies

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Course Overview 
Chronic pain is a common and debilitating condition, affecting about one in five people globally. Pain is a multifaceted phenomenon that significantly impacts an individual's physical function and quality of life. Chronic pain is most associated with musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain, headache, orofacial pain, visceral pain, and neuropathic pain. Roughly one-third of people with chronic non-cancer-related pain are prescribed opioid analgesics; however, long-term research finds that the potential harms likely outweigh the benefits. 

The course is designed to empower healthcare professionals with advanced knowledge and practical skills in managing pain in the absence of opioid drugs. This course will guide learners through the complexities of pain, including the types, underlying mechanisms, assessment methods, and management strategies. The course will explore common non-opioid pharmacological therapies and outline the uses, contraindications, and side effects of each drug. The course also integrates principles of behavioral and cognitive therapy in the management of chronic pain.

Learning Outcomes  
Upon the completion of this course, the learner should be able to:

  • Categorize the physiological, psychological, and social aspects of pain.
  • Differentiate various pain assessment tools and interpret their findings.
  • Apply appropriate pain management strategies that integrate physical, cognitive, and behavioral approaches.
  • Arrange comprehensive therapy plans that integrate an understanding of pain management therapy and are tailored to improving the patient’s functional and occupational performance.
  • Analyze the latest research and emerging therapies to help decrease pain and improve patient outcomes.

About the Author/Presenter  
Abbie Schmitt MSN-Ed, RN, is an accomplished Nurse Educator and Author with a master’s degree in nursing from Liberty University. She has a diverse background, including roles in CPR instruction, incident management, nursing education, and clinical practice, demonstrating her versatility in the healthcare field. Abbie holds multiple certifications and licenses, reflecting her commitment to professional growth. Her published CE courses and her dedication to improving healthcare practices underline her significant contributions to the nursing profession. 


Audience/Accreditations and Approvals 
TRC Healthcare/ NetCE 
In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by TRC Healthcare/ NetCE. TRC Healthcare/NetCE is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team. 
This course is designed for the following healthcare professions (select your profession for details): 
Counselor, Pharmacy, Physician, Psychology, Social Work

Colibri Healthcare 
This course is designed for the following healthcare professions (select your profession for details): 
Massage Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy

If you require special accommodations, please contact Colibri Healthcare Support by clicking here: Contact Us