Treating Persistent Pain: A Nurse Co-Led, Interdisciplinary Model for Primary Care

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Nursing
• Pain Management

Background:

• Chronic pain is a significant public health issue.
• The Institute of Medicine (IOM) and National Pain Strategy (NPS) advocate for transforming pain care.
• Persistent pain requires innovative, interdisciplinary approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement NPS recommendations using nurses and behavioral specialists in an interdisciplinary team.
• To advance care for patients with persistent pain on long-term opioid therapy.
• To evaluate the impact of this NPS-aligned program on patient outcomes and nurse professional growth.

Main Methods:

• A program was implemented with nurses and behavioral specialists leading interdisciplinary teams.
• Nurses utilized NPS recommendations for patients with persistent pain on long-term opioid treatment.
• Patient outcomes were compared to those receiving usual care.

Main Results:

• Patients in the program showed greater reductions in pain severity, disability, and functional interference.
• Program participants reported higher satisfaction with pain-related and primary care services.
• The program fostered professional growth in nurses.

Conclusions:

• An NPS-aligned program led by nurses can significantly improve chronic pain management.
• This model demonstrates successful implementation of the National Pain Strategy.
• Enhancing nurse capacity in this role offers a scalable model for future pain care initiatives.