New delivery systems in pain management.

Technologic innovations have led to the development of new delivery systems in pain management. Prolonged-release morphine, implanted reservoirs, and external and internal infusion pumps are now employed to improve pain management techniques. These advances have allowed entry to previously inaccessible or difficult-to-enter sites such as the intravenous, subcutaneous, epidural, intrathecal, and intraventricular routes. The role of the nurse is paramount in applying these new technologies to pain control. The nurse must employ sound pain-management principles when choosing the route and delivery system that will meet the patient's needs. Nurses are responsible for implementation of the therapy, patient education, ongoing assessment, management of side effects, and evaluation of the effectiveness of the technique. Future innovations will lead to further advances in pain management techniques. As integral members of the health care team, nurses must be involved in the clinical research and evaluation of these new therapies. Advanced technology and supportive nursing care can then be united to ensure optimal pain control for our patients.