Multidisciplinary care in anesthesia involves the collaboration of healthcare professionals to support positive patient outcomes. This approach utilizes the skills of specialists in various disciplines to plan, execute and manage anesthesia care and other facets of pain management throughout the perioperative process.
Here, we’ll explore how a multidisciplinary approach to pain management can support your patients through every stage of their care plan.
Multidisciplinary Care in Pain Management
In the context of pain management, multidisciplinary care involves the collaboration of a variety of medical professionals. A multidisciplinary pain management team may include physicians, pain specialists, anesthesiologists, CRNAs, physical therapists, occupational therapists, psychiatrists, psychologists and other care providers.
Holistic Approach
While it’s easy to think of pain management as solely a physical issue, the consequences of pain can go far beyond what is felt in the body. Taking a holistic approach to pain management requires considering the physical, psychological and social aspects of pain.
While managing pain in the body is an essential part of pain management, it’s also important to include those who can address the effect that pain can have on mental health and social relationships.
Patient-Centered Care
Communication among members of a pain management team and the patient’s involvement are vital. A patient-centered approach can help treatment providers minimize unnecessary interventions, reduce reliance on medications and ensure the patient thrives physically and mentally.
There are several facets to consider in developing a patient-centered, multidisciplinary pain management plan, including:
Comprehensive assessment: Multiple care providers should work to assess the patient, providing abundant information that helps drive their pain management plan forward.
Communication: Frequent, effective communication between the care team members and the patient helps ensure that patients understand each stage of their care plan.
Shared decision-making: Patients have a right to speak about their care plan, and involving patients and their families (if the patient desires) in the decision-making process can help your patient benefit from having control over their treatment.
Emotional and psychological support: The additional support provided by including psychologists and psychiatrists in a pain management plan ensures that patients receive well-rounded care.
