Ketamine as a Non-Opioid Option for Pain Management
Ketamine as a Non-Opioid Option for Pain Management is organized by American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN).
Released/Updated: Mar 12, 2020
Expires: Mar 31, 2026
Topics: Pain Management, Medication Management
Webinar Summary:
As a result of the opioid epidemic, healthcare providers are actively seeking approaches to decrease opioid use in addressing pain management. Studies show that ketamine decreases reported pain and can reduce the number of opioids needed. Although ketamine is labeled by the FDA as an anesthetic agent, its off-label use as an adjunct to acute and acute chronic pain management is increasing in acute and critical care patients. While anesthesiologists typically order ketamine, nurses often are involved with drug delivery through IV infusion or PCA pumps and monitor patient response. In this webinar, national pain expert Melanie Simpson will address the pharmacokinetics of ketamine and the indications for its use in current practice. You will learn about side effects and other nursing care considerations, including the important question: Is this appropriate for my practice?
Objectives:
- State the actions of ketamine and how this relates to nursing care considerations.
- List the indications and contraindications for the use of ketamine.
- Discuss considerations for integrating ketamine for pain management into your practice.
