Susan Holmes-Walker, PhD, RN owner and founder of the Sulan Group, is a registered nurse licensed in the states of Michigan and Florida.
Dr. Holmes-Walker has experience as:
a clinical nurse in hospitals and home care
a hospital-based case manager
a clinical quality facilitator
a higher education administrator, and an educator that specializes in adult pain management education
Her mission is to educate healthcare professionals with the information and training to improve pain management and provide care in the context of our ever changing society. She also has a passion for educating patients and families on pain management and understanding management of chronic disease in today’s health care environment.
Education Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), University of Michigan, 2010
Post-Master’s Certificate, Michigan State University,1998
Master of Science in Community Health Nursing, University of Michigan, 1994
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, University of Michigan,1989
The opioid abuse epidemic has compelled health care professionals to offer more comprehensive care to patients experiencing pain in the immediate time period after surgical procedures. Education on drug and non-drug therapies, is a key component to improving this care.
what we do
Create and facilitate continuing education programs for healthcare professionals on quality pain management and the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion
Provide non-drug pain management and disease management education to patients
Produce health education materials to inform the community at-large
Conduct on-going evidence-based practice and research review to identify marketplace trends regarding management of chronic disease.
Clients
FAQs
Why can’t doctors give me pain medication like they used to?
Due to the prescription pain medication epidemic, drug overdoses and safety issues, federal and state laws have changed how doctors and other professionals can prescribe medications.
Don’t I need prescription pain medication after surgery or injuries?
Not always… when you experience pain some prescription medication may needed. The main problem we see today is that patients need to have a more well-rounded pain management plan.
How do non-drug pain therapies work?
Cold, heat, physical and massage therapy work by decreasing swelling and often times triggering receptors in your body that lead to relaxation. Ask your medical professional if any of these other therapies can be used to manage your pain.
What should I ask my doctor before surgery?
I suggest you ask:
(1) how much pain medication will I receive; (2) what are other things I can do to manage my pain; (3) what do I do if I have side effects to my medication; and, (4) how long should I expect the pain to last. The answers may vary based on your surgery and medical history, but the answers you receive should give you a good understanding of what to expect.
What is the goal of pain management after surgery?
The goal is not to take all of your pain away, but to make you comfortable enough to walk, talk and do approved activities based on any restrictions you have after surgery.
How do you know so much?
Working as a registered nurse for over 25 years in various settings has provided experience caring for patients in pain. I have also attended many conferences and presentations over the years to expand my knowledge. One of the most important things I have learned is we must listen to our patients to get a better understanding of how to meet their needs.
Contact
Sulan Group LLC
Phone: (517)812-2622
thesulangroup@gmail.com
www.sulangroup.com