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Ethnic differences in analgesic consumption for postoperative pain
B Ng1, J E Dimsdale, G P Shragg
1Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla 92093-0804, USA.
Psychosomatic Medicine
|March 1, 1996
Summary
Patient ethnicity significantly impacts postoperative pain management. White patients received more analgesics than Black or Hispanic patients, even after accounting for other factors.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Health disparities
- Pain management
Background:
- Postoperative pain management is crucial for patient recovery.
- Understanding factors influencing analgesic administration is essential for equitable care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of patient ethnicity on the administration of postoperative analgesia.
- To identify potential disparities in pain management based on race and ethnicity.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective chart review was conducted on 250 patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation of limb fractures.
- Postoperative analgesic consumption was quantified using morphine equivalents.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in analgesic administration were observed among ethnic groups (p < .005).
- White patients received an average of 22 mg/day, Black patients 16 mg/day, and Hispanic patients 13 mg/day.
- These ethnic disparities in pain management persisted after controlling for confounding variables.
Conclusions:
- Patient ethnicity significantly influences the receipt of postoperative analgesia.
- Further research is needed to determine if observed differences are due to patient pain behaviors or healthcare provider perceptions and treatment practices.