Atenção às crises de saúde mental relacionadas ao uso de opioides em Unidades de Pronto Atendimento (UPAs)

Abstract

The improper and abusive use of opioids is an international public health problem, witnessed in urgent and emergency care services. This article analyzes the conduct adopted by health professionals in crises related to abusive use, intoxication, and withdrawal from opioids, presented by a user of the Unified Health System (SUS),based on entries in the Emergency Care of a city in the metropolitan region of Curitiba. This is a retrospective and qualitative case study that analyzed 42 entries, between 2018 and 2024, recorded in the electronic medical record and associated with opioids. The results showed a predominance of conducts centered on the prescription of opioids to the detriment of non-pharmacological measures and few referrals to the health network, even in the face of records indicating dependence. The performance of the multiprofessional team, especially Psychology and Social Work, proved important for articulations with the Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS) and suggestions for continuity of care. These findings highlight the need for specific policies aimed at opioid dependence, for the development of strategies in urgent care services and greater integration between levels of care.