Portland, OR - Oregon Human Resources announced on August 18 that the deaths of 10 patients who obtained prescriptions for lethal medications have been reported to the state's health division. Of these, eight died after taking the medication, and two died from their diseases, said Dr. Katrina Hedberg, medical epidemiologist. "All ten reports received by the Division documented full compliance with the provisions of the Act," she said, and all were deemed capable of making and communicating healthcare decisions, all received a medical evaluation from a second physician, and all complied with the 15-day waiting period between requests. The average age of those who obtained the prescriptions was 71; five were men and five were women. Nine of the 10 were cancer patients.
Washington, D.C. - The American Society of Pain Management Nurses (ASPMN) joined the Pain Care Coalition to speak out against the proposed Lethal Drug Abuse Prevention Act. ASPMN joined other pain organizations in briefing the media and Hill staff on the effects this legislation could have on pain management. ASPMN President Pamela Bennett, B.S.N., R.N., said, "More than any other chronic condition, pain crosses all lines of age, race and gender, and is still severely undertreated. This legislation could compound this problem by creating an environment in which healthcare professionals are reluctant to prescribe adequate treatments, fearing scrutinization and misunderstood intent." Bennett noted, "The focus of our attention needs to be on improving the access and delivery of adequate pain management, especially in the case of end-of-life care." The ASPMN is an organization of 1400 nurses seeking to promote care of patients in pain by providing education, supporting professional standards, advocating for patients, and supporting research.
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