A case of prone position pain in severe low cardiac function severe COVID-19 pneumonia improved by team medicine with pain clinic

Abstract

Case: A 51-year-old man with severe heart hypofunction and COVID-19 severe pneumonia was treated with noninvasive positive pressure ventilation. He was difficult to maintain oxygenation except in the prone position, but he had severe neck, shoulder, and lumbar pain. He also had hepatic and renal dysfunction, which made it difficult to use analgesics, and he was referred to a pain clinic. A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug poultice, was suggested, and it was very effective for his pain. The patient was able to remain in the prone position and was active in rehabilitation, and oxygenation was improved, thus avoiding endotracheal intubation. This case demonstrates the importance of teamwork between intensive care and pain clinic.