What is the Clinical Relevance of Receptor Density in Pain Management?
In pain management, receptor density is crucial for understanding how patients respond to analgesics. For instance, opioid receptors' density can significantly influence the effectiveness of opioid drugs. In cases of opioid tolerance, receptor density decreases, necessitating higher doses for pain relief. Nurses must be vigilant in monitoring patients for signs of tolerance and adjusting treatment plans accordingly.
