Intraspinal devices for pain management.

Intraspinal drug delivery is one of several important pain management therapies. Numerous delivery methods and drugs are available for administration into the epidural or intrathecal space. The choice of systems and drugs is based on the nature and duration of the patient's pain, his or her other medical problems, and patient resources. Patients must be carefully selected to ensure optimal results. Nurses can assist in this screening and perform preoperative teaching, postoperative care, and long-term follow-up. Essential knowledge includes general pain management principles as well as principles of intraspinal drug delivery.