Mindful Continuing Education

1. Each of the following is an accurate statement about chronic pain EXCEPT:

A. Major causes of chronic pain include lower back problems, nerve damage, and migraine headaches, but it may also be contributed to diseases such as sickle cell anemia, arthritis, pancreatitis, fibromyalgia, and HIV/AIDS B. When individuals have pain that has bothered them for more than 6 months and it doesn't seem to get better with time, they may be experiencing chronic pain C. Changes that may occur because of chronic pain include added stress, an increase in pain, and the triggering of new health problems, and if unmanaged, pain can become the center of the person's life D. One of the most important things a person can do to manage chronic pain is to safeguard his or her recovery from mental illness or addiction

2. Individuals who have a history with drugs or alcohol may hesitate to seek medical care for pain, so it may help to look for care providers who are experienced in pain management to work with those who have histories of mental illness or addiction.

A. True B. False

3. Chronic pain affects the body, mood, relationships, and a person's ability to be independent, so when asked to rate the level of pain, the individual should include the pain itself plus the level of suffering and disruption it is causing.

A. True B. False

4. Which of the following is NOT one of the recommendations that should be included in a pain management plan?

A. Include exercise as a way to feel stronger and more flexible, speed recovery from injury, improve balance, and brighten the person's mood B. Participate in cognitive-behavioral therapy to help manage attitudes toward pain and alter the way it is experienced C. Consider alternative treatments as add-ons to the plan such as herbs and vitamins, massage, meditation, acupuncture, and chiropractic care D. Before taking a narcotic for pain, try patches, creams, or targeted procedures such as nerve blocks or trigger point injections

5. A history of drug addiction or abuse does not necessarily rule out opioid medication for pain, but before going this route, the patient and care provider should carefully consider the individual's recovery status, support network, and other factors that can help avoid relapse.

A. True B. False

6. Patients who are taking naltrexone as part of a medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction may be able to adjust their dose schedule to provide some pain relief, but if they are taking buprenorphine, an additional opioid dosage will not be effective for pain.

A. True B. False

7. People on opioid medication should discontinue taking it when the harm begins to outweigh the benefits, or when:

A. The pain has decreased or disappeared B. The medication fails to relieve pain or the side effects are not worth the pain relief C. It is increasing cravings and putting recovery at risk D. All of the above

8. When people in recovery find themselves misusing medication, noticing new or worsened psychiatric symptoms, or having cravings for alcohol or drugs, they should talk to their care providers or counselor immediately to explore appropriate options.

A. True B. False