The dentist shall comply with the requirements in this section when prescribing opioid analgesics for subacute pain, and shall document completion of these requirements in the patient record:

(1) Prior to prescribing an opioid for subacute pain, the dentist shall:

(a) Conduct an appropriate history and physical examination or review and update the patient's existing history and examination taken during the acute nonoperative or acute perioperative phase;

(b) Evaluate the nature and intensity of the pain;

(c) Inquire about other medications the patient is prescribed or taking, including date, type, dosage, and quantity prescribed;

(d) Conduct, or cause their designee to conduct, a query of the PMP in accordance with the provisions of WAC 246-817-980 to identify any Schedule II-V medications or drugs of concern received by the patient and document in their review and any concerns;

(e) Obtain a biological specimen test if the patient's function is deteriorating or if pain is escalating; and

(f) Screen or refer the patient for further consultation for psychosocial factors which may be impairing recovery including, but not limited to, depression or anxiety.

(2) The dentist treating a patient for subacute pain with opioids shall ensure that, at a minimum, the following are documented in the patient record:

(a) The presence of one or more recognized diagnoses or indications for the use of opioid pain medication;

(b) The observed significant and documented improvement in function or pain control forming the basis to continue prescribing opioid analgesics beyond the acute pain episode;

(c) The result of any queries of the PMP and any concerns the dentist may have;

(d) All medications the patient is known to be prescribed or taking;

(e) An appropriate pain treatment plan, including the consideration of, or attempts to use, nonpharmacological modalities and nonopioid therapy;

(f) Results of any aberrant biological specimen testing results and the risk-benefit analysis if opioids are to be continued;

(g) Results of screening or referral for further consultation for psychosocial factors which may be impairing recovery including, but not limited to, depression or anxiety;

(h) Results of screening for the patient's level of risk for aberrant behavior and adverse events related to opioid therapy;

(i) The risk-benefit analysis of any combination of prescribed opioid and benzodiazepines or sedative-hypnotics, if applicable; and

(j) All other required components of the patient record, as established in statute or rule.

(3) Follow-up visits for pain control must include objectives or metrics to be used to determine treatment success if opioids are to be continued. This includes at a minimum:

(a) Change in pain level;

(b) Change in physical function;

(c) Change in psychosocial function; and

(d) Additional planned diagnostic evaluations or other treatments.