Name of the Procedure:

Injection, meperidine hydrochloride, per 100 mg (HCPCS Code: J2175)

Common name(s): Demerol injection, Pain-relief injection

Technical or medical terms: Meperidine hydrochloride injection

Summary

This procedure involves the administration of meperidine hydrochloride via injection. Meperidine, also known by its brand name Demerol, is a pain-relief medication commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain.

Purpose

The injection of meperidine hydrochloride is used to:

• Relieve moderate to severe pain.
• Manage pain in surgical, injury-related, or chronic pain contexts.
• Provide analgesia during medical procedures.

Indications

• Severe pain not relieved by other medications.
• Preoperative sedation and analgesia.
• Acute pain from surgeries, trauma, or medical conditions.
• Chronic pain management in certain cases, though typically under strict medical supervision.

Preparation

• Fasting may be required if the injection is for preoperative sedation.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests may include complete blood counts, liver function tests, and kidney function tests.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare professional will clean the injection site, typically on the upper arm, thigh, or buttock.
2. Using a sterile syringe, they will inject meperidine hydrochloride into the muscle (intramuscularly) or vein (intravenously).
3. Vital signs like blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels will be monitored.

Tools and equipment: Syringe, alcohol swab, sterile gloves, monitoring equipment.

Anesthesia or sedation: Not typically required, as the injection itself is a means for pain relief.

Duration

The procedure itself takes only a few minutes. The onset of pain relief generally occurs within 10-15 minutes if administered intravenously, or within 30 minutes if administered intramuscularly.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient clinics
• Surgical centers

Personnel

• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Physician or Surgeon
• Anesthesiologist (if part of a broader surgical or pain management plan)

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Sweating and flushing

Rare risks:

• Respiratory depression
• Allergic reactions
• Seizures
• Addiction or dependence with long-term use

Benefits

• Rapid relief from moderate to severe pain.
• Improved comfort and well-being post-procedure or during acute medical conditions.

Recovery

• Patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery initially.
• Follow any additional instructions from your healthcare provider.
• Return for follow-up appointments as advised.
• Maintain hydration and notify a medical professional if you experience persistent side effects.

Alternatives

Other treatment options may include:

• Non-opioid pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Other opioid medications with different profiles.
• Physical therapy and non-pharmacologic pain management techniques.

Pros and cons of alternatives:

• Non-opioids may have fewer side effects but may not be as effective for severe pain.
• Other opioids may vary in terms of strength, duration, and side effect profiles.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel a pinch or sting at the injection site.
• Rapid onset of pain relief, though initial side effects like dizziness may occur.
• Pain management will be closely monitored and adjusted to ensure comfort.