JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Addiction to opiates and synthetic opioids pose a major threat to public health worldwide, with pharmaceutical opioids prescribed to manage pain constituting the main problem. To counteract this threat, suitable pain management strategies should be implemented in healthcare. Monitoring pain management appears to be feasible telemedically with certain degree of resource intensity and digitization. As a communication channel for this monitoring, Short Message Service (SMS) appears as a valid alternative.

Objective:

Analyzing the current literature on post-operative pain management via SMS and developing a guideline in form of a Pain Management Communication Model (PMC-Model).

Methods:

A systematic literature review is conducted, mainly following the recommendations of Okoli and Shabram, and Moher et al.

Results:

SMS is effective and suited for both pre- and postoperative pain management. The PMC-Model designed based on the analyzed studies provides a conceptual framework for scientists, physicians, as well as other medical professionals.

Conclusions:

The PMC model could efficiently address the opioid epidemic. It serves as a generally applicable pain management system, which can be individually adapted to the respective clinical situation. Additionally, the PMC-Model provides a conceptual framework for future research. Future research should refine the literature review, validate the PMC-Model, and apply it to various healthcare settings.