Ketamine Infusions for Outpatient Pain Management: A Policy Development Project

J Infus Nurs. 2018 Sep/Oct;41(5):284-292. doi: 10.1097/NAN.0000000000000284.

Abstract

Current literature supports using ketamine for both acute and chronic pain management. It is imperative that the development of evidence-based protocols and policies keep pace with health care delivery to ensure patient safety. This project's objective was to formulate an outpatient ketamine infusion policy that promotes consistent and evidence-based care within a specified hospital system. This policy addresses potential side effects and minimization of adverse events by addressing patient selection, level of nursing care required, appropriate monitoring, and staff education.

MeSH terms

  • Analgesics / administration & dosage*
  • Evidence-Based Practice
  • Humans
  • Infusions, Intravenous / methods*
  • Ketamine / administration & dosage*
  • Outpatients*
  • Pain / drug therapy
  • Pain Management / methods*
  • Policy Making*
  • Quality Improvement

Substances

  • Analgesics
  • Ketamine