I hear hear you. I'ts frustrating. I don't have an answer. But I wish Dr.s would try non narcotic pain rx like Tramodol, etc.
I've had so many addicted pt. on Med surg who put the call light on exactly when the prn is due and they are in TROUBLE because they are addicted, i guess. AND I've had a few Pt.s who had drugs brought in for them by their junky friends. I figured it out when they got really sedated and thanks for Narcan. Then a drug screen shows results of meds that were not prescribed by MD. It's alot of added responsiblity for a nurse.
They have been offered help via social services some go for it and some decline.
I read about drug addiction w narcs, heroin, etc and once the dopamine high hits, people can't stop. It's very difficult
Thanks for posting.