Changing pain management practice and impacting on patient outcomes.

C. L. White

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

22 Scopus citations

Abstract

Concerns about acute pain management prompted the development of a pain management program. The program, with assessment, intervention, and evaluation components, was introduced by the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team. The assessment phase included a descriptive study of postoperative pain and a baseline audit of nursing documentation related to pain assessment and management. Interventions, including a focused educational program and new routes for postoperative analgesia, were then introduced. Evaluations at 3 months and 2 years indicated improvements in documentation of pain assessments and improved management of pain. Additionally, at each follow-up evaluation, patients reported decreased postoperative pain. The assessment and management of pain is an important domain of nursing practice. The CNS is in a unique position to influence nursing practice and to impact on patient outcomes in this area of pain management.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)166-172
Number of pages7
JournalClinical nurse specialist CNS
Volume13
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 1999
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Assessment and Diagnosis
  • Leadership and Management
  • Advanced and Specialized Nursing
  • LPN and LVN

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