USE OF PROPHYLACTIC ANTIEMETICS WITH OPIATES IN TRAUMA, A MYTH OR REALITY A RANDOMIZED CONTROL TRIAL

Abstract

Background: The use of prophylactic antiemetics alongside opiates in trauma management has been a subject of debate, with conflicting evidence regarding its efficacy. In light of this, a randomized controlled trial was conducted at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham from January 2023 to August 2023.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate whether the adjunctive use of prophylactic antiemetics with opiates in trauma patients is a myth or a reality in terms of reducing postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) incidence and improving patient outcomes.

Methods: A total of 200 trauma patients were randomly assigned to either the experimental group receiving prophylactic antiemetics alongside opiates or the control group receiving opiates alone. The incidence of PONV, pain scores, length of hospital stay, and adverse events were assessed and compared between the two groups.

Results: Analysis revealed a significant reduction in the incidence of PONV in the experimental group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, patients in the experimental group reported lower pain scores and shorter hospital stays. No significant increase in adverse events was observed in the experimental group.

Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that the adjunctive use of prophylactic antiemetics with opiates in trauma patients is indeed beneficial, as it reduces the incidence of PONV, alleviates pain, and potentially facilitates earlier discharge without notable adverse effects. Thus, it challenges the notion that this practice is merely a myth and underscores its potential as a valuable adjunct in trauma management.