Errors in Opioid Prescribing: A Prospective Survey in Cancer Pain

Abstract 

Context

Cancer pain is debilitating and has multidimensional consequences. It can be treated adequately in up to 90% of patients by following pain management guidelines. Nevertheless, inadequate pain control remains a global problem.

Objectives

We surveyed prescribing patterns in patients referred to our Palliative Medicine Program (PMP) to identify common errors in opioid use.

Methods

Consecutive cancer patients seen by our PMP were prospectively surveyed for the presence of pain and errors in opioid prescribing at the time of initial consultation. Our recommendations to correct and optimize pain management also were recorded.

Results

One hundred eighty-six consecutive cancer patients were screened. One hundred seventeen (63%) had cancer pain, 151 opioid prescribing errors were detected, and 147 different recommendations were made. Most common were failure to order around-the-clock opioids for constant pain, and the failure to treat or prevent opioid side effects. Multiple errors were more common in females, but the sex difference did not reach statistical significance. There was no difference in the errors by pain severity or reason for consultation.

Conclusion

Opioid prescribing errors were common. Females may be at greater risk of multiple errors. A PM consultation program is effective in identifying and correcting a wide variety of opioid prescribing errors.

Key Words: Opioid prescribing errors, cancer pain, palliative medicine