Variation in postoperative narcotic prescribing after pediatric appendectomy.

Background: Overuse of prescription opioids by both pediatric and adult patients has garnered significant attention in recent years. Educational interventions have been shown to decrease prescription opioids post-operatively in the adult population; similar data have not previously been reported in pediatrics.

Methods: Educational interventions included staff education, institution of opioid standardization protocol, and distribution of educational materials to families.