This course addresses the important issue of postoperative pain management, focusing on the detrimental impact of stigma. Participants will explore the complex nature of postoperative pain, acknowledging the interplay of physical, emotional, and social factors that shape a patient's experience. A key emphasis will be placed on recognizing and mitigating the stigma patients face when discussing or seeking treatment for pain, which often creates obstacles to effective care. The program will equip healthcare providers with practical strategies to foster a supportive and non-judgmental environment, encouraging open communication and ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and reduced stigma surrounding postoperative pain.
Target Audience
- Iowa Surgical providers
- Clinical teams
Learning Objectives
- Recognize the stigma some patients face when discussing or seeking treatment for postoperative pain, and how this stigma can impact their care.
- Describe the multifaceted nature of pain after surgery, including physical, emotional, and social factors that influence a patient's experience.
- Identify strategies healthcare providers can use to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment that encourages open communication about pain, thereby reducing stigma and improving patient outcomes.