Managing a patient's pain for any condition is a concern to nurses and other health care professionals. A patient now understands that it is his/her right to have appropriate pain management. Pain assessment should be part of every patient's routine monitoring just like temperature, pulse, respirations and blood pressure. The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) mandates that hospitals and their staffs recognize that every patient has the right to be assessed and receive adequate pain management.
In orthopaedics, pain is a special concern due to the degree of pain that is present during and after orthopaedic injury, treatment and surgery. (Gordon & Pellino, 2002) In addition, pain in muscles and joints is often seen with or without injury in aging patients. Athletic and work related activities can also be the source of pain. According to the American Academy of Pain Management (2003) more than 50% of all Americans have experienced recurrent or chronic pain in the preceding year. I would expect that most people reading this editorial have had at least one bout of significant pain themselves or have a loved one who has had this experience.
With the ever-changing possibilities for pain management due to the introduction of new medications, routes of administration as well as medications that have been withdrawn from the market, it is necessary to frequently stay updated on the latest information related to pain management.
Turkoski (p. 134) discusses the need for age specific pain management for children of all ages. In her article she describes the concerns related to medicating the young and very young. Specific information regarding the differences that exist in a young patient that will affect pain management is presented.
Keck and her colleagues from Duke (p. 86) provide an in-depth discussion on the use of DepoDur(R) in post surgical orthopaedic patients. This innovative approach warrants a close look by those seeking better ways to manage pain in post surgical patients.
In Research Update (p. 140), Schoen presents six recent studies on pain in orthopaedic patients. It is by reviewing these types of research studies that we can all benefit as we try and provide the best pain management to our patients.
In addition, partnering with our nurse colleagues who specialize in the management of pain should be encouraged and developed. The development of interdisciplinary teams to help patients achieve a level of comfort that is acceptable to the patient, family and health care provider is the ultimate goal.
REFERENCES