Pedia Pain Focus

Overdose related deaths have continually increased in the United States over the past 2 decades. Substance abuse and mental health disorders are the NUMBER ONE contributor to adverse health effects among young people. Though it is so prevalent its impact on children is rarely mentioned. The added complexities of pain management in the setting of substance abuse and addiction, require a clear understanding of the issue, due diligence and coordination of care.   In this episode, we discuss substance abuse among youths, its prevention, treatment options, resources for clinicians, and management of pain in the setting of substance abuse and addiction, with two pediatric pain experts from UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital;   Dr. Amber Borucki MD, a Board Certified pediatric anesthesiologist and pain physician, and Dr. Veronika Mesheriakova MD, an adolescent medicine physician with specialization in pediatric substance use disorders and addiction.                          Takeaways in This Episode   How Dr. Am