Final answer:
When treating patients with substance abuse who have acute pain, it is important to balance pain management with the risk of addiction. Non-opioid pain relief medications, such as acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, can be initially prescribed to alleviate pain without the risk of addiction. If these medications are insufficient, opioids may be used for short-term pain relief, but caution must be taken due to their addictive properties.
Step-by-step explanation:
When treating patients with substance abuse who have acute pain, it is important to balance pain management with the risk of addiction. Non-opioid pain relief medications, such as acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, can be initially prescribed to alleviate pain without the risk of addiction. If these medications are insufficient, opioids may be used for short-term pain relief, but caution must be taken due to their addictive properties. Close monitoring and communication with healthcare professionals are necessary to ensure a safe and effective treatment plan.