Pain Management

Pain management is a basic part of good client care. Every client has the right to relief from pain! Minimum pain management standards set by the Joint Commission require that patients be asked about pain on their first assessment and throughout the duration of care.

YOUR ROLE IN PAIN MANAGEMENT

Observe for and report all signs and symptoms of pain.
Observe for and report any side effects of pain medications.
Deliver some non-drug treatments such as massage, heat or cold packs, exercise and re-positioning.
Provide support and get help for clients who are in pain. Because pain can impact every part of a person’ life, be prepared to intervene and report symptoms of poor appetite, slow-healing wounds, increased stress, sleep disturbances, loss of mobility, anxiety, depression and thoughts of suicide.

TIPS FOR HELPING WITH PAIN MANAGEMENT

Some people find that being distracted helps them cope with pain. Find out what hobbies or interests your clients have and help them get involved in suitable activities. It may be something as simple as listening to music or reading a good book.
Encourage your clients to get as much exercise as possible. Remind them that if they don’t move around, their muscles will become stiff and sore. But, don’t let them overdo it!
Keep your clients laughing! It has been proven that laughter releases certain chemicals in the body that act as a natural pain medication. (Have you ever noticed how good you feel after you’ve let loose with a real “belly” laugh?)
Understand that your clients will probably have good days and bad days. So, be flexible about your client care, providing more assistance on days when the pain is bad—and less on days when a client can do more for himself.
Be sure to tell your supervisor if pain is keeping a client from performing everyday activities.
Don’t take it personally if clients who are in pain are short-tempered with you. They may feel very frustrated and discouraged from having to deal with their pain, especially if it is chronic.