Implementing best practice pain management in a pediatric hospital

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the implementation of a comprehensive program to improve pain management practices in a pediatric hospital.

Methods: The pretest posttest design used questionnaires, patient record audits, and postimplementation focus groups with 366 nurses and 8 physicians.

Results: Positive changes occurred in the use of pain scales and in valuing good pain management. The program was less effective in improving procedural pain management and pain documentation.

Practice implications: Important program strengths were the "local champions" (Pain Resource Nurses) and the ongoing support and expertise of the pain committee. Systematic evaluation was important to document successes as well as areas requiring further focus.