DrugBuyers.Com: Re: Insiders experience treating patients in pain

First let me say "Thank You", for all of the kind words and understanding for Nurses. I try to make a difference each day that I work, especially when a patient is in pain. I do not mind the hard work, my body does, but my mind and spirit is uplifted when I can help a human being that is suffering. I must admit to all of you that Nursing is wearing on me mentally because I find resistance in being able to treat my patients in the manner I feel that is warranted. In particular patients in pain. I have to beg the Docs for pain meds wether it be stronger, more frequent dosing or just being able to give my patients something for pain. I read the post about "The 5th Vital Sign", it seems that since this concept has been adopted the Docs are even more stringent with dispensing pain meds. Not all but most are afraid to prescribe. I feel that they are under such scrutiny by the Feds that they compromise patient care. Others consider themselves conservative practicioners. This really, really makes my job very difficult and at times so frustrating that I am ashamed to be apart of the health profession. I know that there has to be a light at the end of this battle, and social/cultural ignorance about pain. Treatments will hopefully turn around in a positive manner. Patients will have to grow strong in numbers and be heard and fight for their right to be pain free. I know for many,pain free is really never fully accomplished. An acceptable level of pain is the goal of many chronic pain patients. Due to the fact that the OP's are under such attack right now, I get the feeling that if we complain and protest too much, the Feds will make it harder and almost impossible to receive such a valuable service. I have been tossing ideas around for months now on how to approach this dilemma we are all facing. It is projected that by the beginning of next year or soon after, our choices will have dwindled if any remain after the new legislations. Once this happens it will be too late to fight the issue. Time is short, I just do not know what I as one person can do to make a difference. I understand why we have to be discreet in our methods of relief. It is a catch 22 (old cliche). I have finally joined the VIP board. I post a little and read for hours the wonderful wealth of information the members share. I am really thankful to have found this board and the people who share their experiences and knowledge.
Thank you for having me,
JenRn