Ethical Issues In Acute Pain Management

Ethical Issues in Acute Pain Management of Patients with Substance Abuse Disorders
Jessica R. Williamson
Drexel University

Abstract Acute pain management in substance abusers can present clinical and ethical challenges. These challenges will be examined with attention to the ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, and autonomy. An argument is made in support of aggressive pain and withdrawal symptom management resulting in improved clinical outcomes, increased compliance with therapies, and better patient/provider relationships. The author uses Kantian, Utilitarian, and Feminist Ethics Theories to explore the issues and discuss how Advance Practice Nurses can play a role in addressing them .

Introduction
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