MEDICO-LEGAL RESPONSIBILITY IN MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE AND CHRONIC PAIN IN OBSTETRIC

Medico-legal responsibility in the management of acute or chronic pain in broad sense implies acting by the rules of good clinical practice and reducing the potential treatment side effects and complications that may entail health impairment and possible legal proceedings. Patients with acute or chronic obstetric or nonobstetric pain should be informed on the mode and method of treatment, possible side effects, and effects of drugs or procedures on fetal growth and development (informed consent). The principles of perinatal pharmacology and toxicology should be respected, choosing the mode of treatment associated with the lowest rate of side effects and a minimally invasive procedure (Accordingly, medico-legal responsibility is a professional and deontological category that should be fostered and implemented in line with professional guidelines and safety for both patients and medical staff.)