A survey study assessing prescribers' opioid tapering instructions to patients after orthopedic surgery

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this institutional survey study was to assess the opioid tapering practices of prescribers responsible for writing post-discharge opioid refills.

Design: A prospective, cross-sectional survey study.

Setting: Urban hospital specializing in orthopedic surgery.

Participants: Participants were identified from the hospital's active directory. Out of 251 questionnaires distributed, 88 were returned and evaluated; 60 percent were surgeons and 34 percent were physician assistants.

Intervention: An anonymous, voluntary eight-item survey was devised to capture information on tapering instructions from prescribers of post-discharge opioids.

Main outcome measures: Survey responses categorized by role and primary service.

Results: All prescribers (N = 47) provide tapering instructions; 87 percent provide general, while 9 percent provide detailed plans. Most (94 percent) prescribers discuss tapering via phone calls or during office visits, and 6 percent provide written instructions.

Conclusions: Few prescribers provide detailed tapering instructions. Providers may not feel equipped to provide specific tapering plans.