SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF MODELS OF CARE INVOLVING NURSES AND PHARMACISTS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC PAIN
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Keywords
Chronic pain management, nurse-pharmacist collaboration, interprofessional models, medication optimization, biopsychosocial approach.
Abstract
Chronic pain affects millions globally, imposing significant burdens on healthcare systems. This systematic review examines models of care that integrate nurses and pharmacists in managing chronic pain, aiming to synthesize evidence on their effectiveness, structures, and outcomes. A comprehensive search identified 10 relevant studies, primarily systematic reviews, qualitative studies, and evaluations of interprofessional models. Key models include pharmacist-led interventions, interprofessional collaborative care, and nurse-pharmacist partnerships in primary and community settings. Results indicate these models reduce pain intensity, improve medication safety, enhance quality of life, and lower opioid use, with notable reductions in morphine-equivalent doses and improvements in patient function. However, barriers such as scope of practice limitations and insufficient training persist. The review concludes that integrating nurses and pharmacists in chronic pain management yields positive clinical and humanistic outcomes, recommending broader implementation with policy support. Keywords: chronic pain, nurses, pharmacists, interprofessional care, medication safety
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