Pain therapy principles on commercial ships involve a combination of strategies aimed at managing and alleviating pain experienced by individuals while on board.
The unique environment and challenges of being at sea require special considerations in pain management.
Here are some principles that should be followed:
1. Assessment:
Thorough assessment of the individual’s pain is crucial. This includes evaluating the location, intensity, quality, and duration of the pain. Additionally, identifying any underlying medical conditions or injuries that may cause or contribute to the pain is essential.
2. Multimodal Approach:
Employing a multimodal approach to pain management involves using a combination of techniques and interventions to address pain from different angles. This may include medications, physical therapies, psychological interventions, and alternative treatments.
3. Medications:
Pain-relieving medications may be used to manage different types and severities of pain. Non-prescription analgesics, such as acetaminophen, diclofenac, or ibuprofen, can be provided for mild to moderate pain and should be the first step. For more severe pain, stronger prescription medications like opioids or tramadol may be necessary and should not be avoided. The use of opioids should be initiated after consulting a remote medical consultant only, and careful monitoring is required due to their potential for addiction and side effects.
4. Physical Therapies:
Physical therapies play a vital role in pain management. These may include physical exercises, heat or cold therapy, and various forms of positioning (e.g., during sleep). These techniques help relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation.
5. Psychological Interventions:
This should be mentioned here for completeness as it is well-known that even mental conditions have an impact on pain and its individual consideration, toleration, and management.
6. Alternative Treatments:
Depending on availability and individual preferences, complementary and alternative therapies may be used. These can include acupuncture, herbal remedies, aromatherapy, or relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga. While the evidence for some of these treatments is limited, they may provide additional pain relief and improve overall well-being.
7. Education and Support:
Providing education and support to individuals experiencing pain is crucial. This involves explaining the nature of their pain, discussing treatment options, setting realistic expectations, and encouraging self-management techniques.
8. Safety Considerations:
Pain therapy on commercial ships should prioritize safety. This includes considering potential interactions between medications, monitoring for side effects, and ensuring that the individual is fit to perform their duties while managing pain. Adequate rest periods and modifications to work duties may be necessary to prevent the exacerbation of pain.
It’s important to note that pain management should always be supervised by qualified medical professionals who can tailor the treatment to individual needs and ensure the safety and well-being of crew members on commercial ships.
If you want to learn more about how we handle this – get in contact with us at: info@marinemedical.solutions
