08-25-2015, 01:56 PM
A 23-year-old man comes to the Emergency department because of a 2-week history of back pain refractory to treatment with over-the-counter medications. He demands a prescription for an opioid drig because ''they are the only medications that decrease my pain''. He becomes upset when is told that over-the-counter medications should relieve his symptoms. His temperature is 37.1C, pulse is 70/min, respirations are 18/min, and blood pressure is 120/70mmHg. Physical examination shows no abnormalities. Which of the following is the most appropriate action by the physician?
A) Determine which drugs have been prescribed for the patient in the past
B) Obtain serum toxicology screening on the patient
C) Order an MRI of the spine
D) Prescribe only a 2-week course of a narcotic medication for the patient
E) Refer the patient to a drug addiction program
please explain the answer
A) Determine which drugs have been prescribed for the patient in the past
B) Obtain serum toxicology screening on the patient
C) Order an MRI of the spine
D) Prescribe only a 2-week course of a narcotic medication for the patient
E) Refer the patient to a drug addiction program
please explain the answer