Recognize when risks of chronic opioid therapy outweigh benefits and effectively communicate this information to patients.
Employ language to prepare patients in advance for the opioid taper, and to provide emotional support in the midst of withdrawal.
Integrate the key features of a successful outpatient taper off of chronic opioid therapy: go slowly, take breaks, never go backwards.
Distinguish the signs and symptoms of opioid use disorder (addiction), and intervene with compassion when, in the process of a taper, an opioid use disorder comes to light.
Counsel patients on non-opioid alternatives to chronic pain
