SARASOTA, FL — January 29th — In an effort to provide opioid-sparing care in the prehospital context, Sarasota County Emergency Services has made intravenous (IV) acetaminophen the first-line treatment for moderate to severe pain. The modification encourages early pain management by paramedics in the field and eliminates routine opioid use from front-line equipment. The procedure is in line with recommendations from the National Association of EMS Physicians and studies that demonstrate IV acetaminophen can effectively relieve pain on par with IV opioids while avoiding side effects including drowsiness or respiratory depression.

Studies have also shown that because of access issues and worries about opioid side effects, pain may go untreated prior to hospitalization. According to officials, the change supports contemporary, evidence-based emergency medical practices while enhancing patient safety, comfort, and care.