I am working on a research project to improve the safety of strong pain medicines called opioids used in hospital.
These medicines (such as morphine, oxycodone and fentanyl) are often used to treat pain. However, they can sometimes cause side effects, such as breathing problems, feeling very sleepy, confusion or falls.
This project aims to use information already collected in hospitals to help identify patients who may be at higher risk of these side effects, so that care can be made safer and better tailored to each person.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for patients, carers and members of the public to help shape this research at an early stage, in particular:
• Patients who have received strong pain medicines in hospital
• Family members or carers
• Members of the public interested in patient safety
We particularly welcome people who have experienced side effects or complications from strong pain medicines, or who have supported someone who has. However, this is not required, and all perspectives are welcome.
You do not need any medical or research experience to take part.
You do not need to share personal experiences unless you feel comfortable.
We welcome people from all backgrounds, including ethnic minority communities and groups who may not usually be involved in research. This is important because people’s experiences of healthcare, communication, and medicines can differ. Some groups may also face barriers to accessing care or may be at higher risk of health inequalities.
Including a diverse range of perspectives will help make sure the research is fair, relevant, and works well for everyone.
We would like your views on:
• What side effects or risks matter most to patients
• Experiences of pain treatment in hospital
• How you would feel about a tool that helps doctors and prescribers identify patients at higher risk of side effects
• Whether this kind of approach feels helpful, acceptable, or concerning
• What would make you trust or not trust this kind of tool
• How information about risks should be explained to patients
Your input will help make sure the research focuses on what matters most to patients and is designed in a way that is clear, safe and useful.
What commitment is needed?
We plan to involve around 6–8 people to allow open discussion.
You will be invited to take part in:
• One online discussion lasting about 1 hour
• A short survey (optional)
Before the session, we will send you a short and simple explanation of the project.
There may be an opportunity to be involved again later (for example, reviewing documents or joining a group), but this is completely optional.
If you are interested, please respond by 17 April 2026, by emailing Samantha Ma: Samantha.ma@ouh.nhs.uk
Reimbursement
You will receive £27.50 per hour for your time.
Date required
Deadline for responses: 17 April 2026
Organisation
Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Contact
Samantha Ma: Samantha.ma@ouh.nhs.uk