Student Athletic Therapists' Knowledge of Opioids and Other Pain-Relieving Medications

Context In their role as health care providers, student athletic therapists (SATs) are responsible for the prevention and management of injuries. To fully understand an injury, SATs require knowledge contributing factors, including medications use misuse. Opioid misuse by athletes to manage pain has been documented in literature, highlighting importance being able recognize opioid Opioids known alleviate pain, impair cognition, have addictive qualities which prevents appropriate assessment Objective The objective this study was SATs' pain-relieving medication, particularly opioids. Design Qualitative study. Setting Semistructured interview. Patients or Other Participants at accredited institution Canada. Data Synthesis were collected through interviews transcribed. Themes developed using triangulation that reflected data Results Four themes uncovered: (1) had experienced both personal professional opioids, formulated current knowledge; (2) lacked general potential consequences lack (3) stemmed from culture, social media, news organizations; (4) felt considerable pressure provide correct information due autonomous with a team. Conclusions enough be appropriately advise on medications, opinions sources not rooted research such may transfer incorrect athletes. stigmatized who factor into inappropriate decisions regarding athlete's care. Finally, carried significant burden share did refer outside (eg, physicians) when they unsure sharing