What risk factors does John have for risk of opioid withdrawal during this hospitalization?

Pain assessment: the fifth vital sign

John has a few risk factors for opioid withdrawal during his hospitalization. Firstly, he is taking high doses of opioid pain medications which are known to cause physical dependence. This means that if opioids are suddenly stopped or reduced, the individual may experience an array of withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sweating, muscle aches and cramping. Secondly, John has had an extended period of opioid use prior to coming into the hospital. As a result his body has likely adapted and become used to these substances leaving him at greater risk for experiencing more severe withdrawal symptoms when they are discontinued.

Thirdly, John’s history of substance use disorder could also increase the risk for experiencing withdrawal during this hospitalization. People with substance use disorder have often developed a tolerance to opioids which require them to take higher amounts in order to achieve the same effect compared with those without it; therefore stopping or reducing these levels abruptly can be more difficult and lead to more serious complications.

Finally, John’s age (over 65) may also add additional risks due to the fact that elderly people tend to be more fragile and thus less capable of tolerating sudden changes in medication levels than younger individuals. For this reason it is important that any adjustments made in dosage be done carefully under close medical supervision so as not put John at unnecessary risk while managing his pain adequately during his hospital stay.