Mastering Opioid Tapering: Practical Tips and Communication Strategies
The key is to really figure out the best method for you, your patient and your practice. And so I really wanted to talk today about one approach that many clinicians like, and that is the BRAVO approach developed by Dr. Anna Lemke, which emphasizes a collaborative approach to opioid tapering.
How do you approach the delicate task of tapering a patient off opioids? In this episode of the Compass Opioid Stewardship Clinical Cases podcast, Dr. Donald Stader and clinical pharmacist Dr. Rachael Duncan dive into the nitty-gritty of tapering conversations. They kick things off with a role-play scenario featuring Anne, a patient with a complex medication regimen.
Through their discussion, they unravel the mechanics of tapering and introduce the BRAVO approach—a collaborative framework designed to make the process smoother and safer for both patients and clinicians. But it’s not just about the 'how'; it's also about the 'why'. Dr. Stader and Dr. Duncan highlight the benefits of tapering, from reducing dependency to improving overall health outcomes.
Effective communication is crucial, and they offer practical tips on how to talk to patients about tapering, manage risks, and implement harm reduction strategies. They also emphasize the importance of multimodal pain management and supporting patients with therapy and other coping mechanisms. Whether you're a seasoned clinician or new to managing chronic opioid therapy, this episode equips you with actionable insights to enhance your practice.
Tune in to gain valuable skills that can make a real difference in your patient care.