AMA Guides® Newsletter

Articles

Opioids: Current Science

James B. Talmage, Robert B. Snyder

Pages 3–12

DOI: 10.1001/amaguidesnewsletters.2021.SeptOct01

Abstract
Evidence shows that chronic opioid therapy is usually not beneficial; weaning patients off opioids many times results in less pain and better function, and opioid-induced hyperalgesia is real and frequent. Further evidence suggests that surgical outcomes are better if patients are weaned off opioids before surgery, and that the chronic use of opioids may adversely alter the assessment of maximum medical improvement (MMI).
Psychological Effects of COVID-19 and Preliminary Treatment Recommendations

Sarah H. Gulick, Steven Mandel, Edward A. Maitz, Christopher R. Brigham

Pages 13–16

DOI: 10.1001/amaguidesnewsletters.2021.SeptOct02

Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus affects the mental health of many. Isolation, fear of infection, and social distancing may affect psychological functioning. Research continues to evolve and reveal the psychological symptoms reported by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. Depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and psychosis have been reported in the literature for COVID-19 patients. Potential preliminary treatment recommendations include various forms of psychotherapy, such as dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. More research should be done regarding other additional treatment recommendations that may facilitate psychological healing in COVID-19 patients.
Q&A: Lack of Medical Records

Christopher R. Brigham, Robert J. Barth

Pages 17–19

DOI: 10.1001/amaguidesnewsletters.2021.SeptOct03

Articles

Opioids: Current Science

Psychological Effects of COVID-19 and Preliminary Treatment Recommendations

Q&A: Lack of Medical Records