<p> Jackson’s Rules</p><p>1. If something doesn’t make sense it doesn’t make sense for a reason! </p><p>2. Set limits and stick to them. Say no more than you say yes. A quick American fix isn't always best.</p><p>3. If you suspect addiction, be honest/direct/nonjudgmental and ask if the patient feels they’ve lost control and wants a referral for help. You'll be surprised at how often people accept.</p><p>4. Treat everyone the same, people without addiction never offended by jumping through those hoops. Anger is a BIG red flag.</p><p>5. Always ask what meds they took and when they took them BEFORE announcing they will need to give a random urine sample. </p><p>6. Time spent up front will save you DAYS of time and headaches on the back end. Discuss expectations and exit strategies (if expectations are not met) BEFORE you prescribe ANYTHING.</p><p>7. Chronic pain patients who show up late (without calling) is a red flag: Don't allow it. Structure and consistency is key to managing pain and, incidentally, personality disorders.</p><p>8. Try not to use the word "pain." Focus on FUNCTION. Chronic pain is rarely "cured." Function can drastically change despite persistent pain, and this is what defines quality of life.</p><p>9. Ask about sleep. It is often a good, non-threatening segue into questions about "distress," ie anxiety and depression, without using those loaded words.</p><p>10. The patient is the one with the disease. You cannot help people who do not want to help themselves. And that's ok.</p><p>Always remember, pain is in the brain. All that hurts doesn't necessarily need or respond to opioids.</p>