Helping Patients Heal Safely and Confidently
August 19, 2025
At Mississippi Valley Surgery Center (MVSC), patient care doesn’t end when the surgery is over. It extends into every step of the recovery process, including how we manage medications, educate patients and minimize risk, especially when it comes to narcotics. While every patient’s experience is unique, our approach is built on clear communication, safe practices and a deep commitment to helping patients heal confidently.
We sat down with Martha Conway, BSN, and Catie Davis, pharmacy clerk, to talk about how MVSC helps patients stay safe and informed throughout their surgical journey. From personalized education to multimodal pain management and at-home medication tips, here’s how we help patients take control of their recovery.
HELPING PATIENTS FEEL PREPARED – NOT OVERWHELMED
Before discharge, every patient at MVSC receives a personalized medication reconciliation sheet outlining both their pre-surgery medications and any new prescriptions. It highlights which medications to continue, which to pause and how to safely manage new ones. A nurse walks through the medication instructions with both the patient and a support person, reviewing the purpose, timing and proper use of each drug.
“We always include the support person in the conversation,” Martha Conway, BSN, said. “It gives patients an extra layer of help once they get home, especially if they don’t remember every detail from discharge.”
For patients undergoing more complex procedures, such as total joint replacements, MVSC offers additional guidance through custom medication calendars. These detailed calendars map out exactly when to take each medication in the days following surgery, helping patients stay organized and avoid missed or incorrect doses.
“In some cases, there can be upwards of six to seven new prescriptions on top of existing home medications,” Martha noted. “The calendar helps simplify things by putting all the medication details in one easy-to-follow place.”
To further ease the transition, MVSC utilizes a clinical nurse navigator to check in daily for several days post-surgery, providing continued support, answering questions and helping patients stay on track with their recovery plan.
MULTIMODAL PAIN MANAGEMENT
MVSC uses a multimodal pain management approach, combining different methods to reduce discomfort while minimizing opioid use. This strategy supports faster healing and a safer recovery experience. Pain control methods may include:
- Non-narcotic medications like acetaminophen
- NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or Celebrex
- Icing and early movement instructions
- Physical therapy within a few days post-op
- Long-acting nerve blocks given during surgery
By addressing pain from multiple angles, MVSC helps patients avoid complications associated with opioids, while still staying active and engaged in their recovery.
OPIOID EDUCATION THAT PUTS YOU IN CONTROL
When opioids are necessary for pain management, education becomes the most powerful tool. MVSC ensures patients understand exactly how to use these medications safely and effectively with the following safety tips and recommendations:
- Starting with the lowest effective dose
- Following prescription instructions exactly (e.g., “Take 1–2 tablets every 4–6 hours; do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours”)
- Aiming for a tolerable pain level — not complete pain relief
- Never sharing medications.
- Contacting your provider if the pain isn’t well managed
Understanding potential side effects is also critical. Opioids can cause drowsiness, constipation and in some cases, respiratory depression. Even when taken as prescribed, they can be habit-forming. That’s why MVSC focuses on providing clear, personalized education, so patients feel confident using pain medications safely and know when to reach out for help.
“We help patients understand that the goal isn’t to be completely pain-free,” said Catie. “It’s about reaching a manageable pain level that still allows you to move, walk and participate in recovery.”
SAFE MEDICATION STORAGE AT HOME
Proper medication storage plays a key role in keeping your household safe, especially when it comes to prescription pain medications like opioids. These medications can pose serious risks if not stored correctly, so taking a few simple precautions can help prevent accidental misuse or access by children, pets or visitors.
- Keep all medications in their original, clearly labeled containers.
- Store prescription drugs in a secure cabinet or lockbox—not on countertops or in easily accessible places.
- Make sure medications are out of sight and reach of children and others for whom they weren’t prescribed.
- Avoid using pill organizers for narcotics or new medications, as appearance can vary depending on the manufacturer.
- Store medications in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture.
“It’s especially important to keep narcotics in a secure location, out of reach and in the original bottle they came in,” Catie Davis, pharmacy clerk, said. “If there’s any chance a child could be nearby, those medications need to be up high, out of sight and locked away if possible.”
Being intentional about how and where you store your medications is a simple but powerful step toward preventing accidents and ensuring safe recovery at home.
BUILT ON SAFETY, TAILORED TO YOU
No two patients are the same, and neither are their recoveries. That’s why MVSC avoids a one-size-fits-all approach to pain management. Every plan is tailored to the individual’s procedure, health history and recovery goals.
Whether you’re having a minimally invasive procedure or a major joint replacement, MVSC is committed to delivering care that’s personalized, safe and centered around your needs, from pre-op prep to post-op peace of mind.