ABSTRACT
Relieving pain and suffering is at the heart of the healthcare profession. Despite attempts at treating pain over the decades, fear of unrelieved pain remains a major concern of patients in all healthcare settings. In 1992, the Agency for Healthcare Policy and Research (AHCPR) published guidelines on acute pain which state that the institutional responsibility for pain management begins with the affirmation that patients should have access to the best level of pain relief that may be provided safely. Regarding ethical responsibility, the guidelines stress that the ethical obligation to manage pain and relieve the patient’s suffering is at the core of a healthcare professional’s commitment (Acute Pain Management, 1992). Today, healthcare institutions are challenged with the responsibility and ethical obligation to develop the necessary means and resources to effectively treat pain in all patients. As the guidelines focus on improving the quality of pain relief, the need for programs that address this is becoming increasingly apparent. One of the best means to ensure optimum pain control is the availability of a pain management program that combines the expertise and commitment of a healthcare team whose members are dedicated to the prevention and treatment of pain. Formalized programs are necessary to bring pain control to its rightful place in the healthcare system. This chapter focuses on the key components and steps necessary for the successful implementation of an effective pain management program
The first step in identifying institutional leaders is the appointment of a task force to determine a plan of action. Seek out the “champions” in your institution who have a vested interest and knowledge in pain management. It is important to give those who feel a sense of commitment and ownership the opportunity to contribute to the development of the program. Peters (1987) suggests that those vested “look inward, work with colleagues and customers, work with everyone, to develop and instill a philosophy and vision that is enabling and empowering” (p. 482). Once the task force has been selected, conduct an institutional assessment to examine your organization’s culture, strengths, and weaknesses related to current pain management practices. This group should address the following issues:
1. Is pain management an institutional priority? 2. Who has a knowledge base about pain
management? 3. Do the policies and procedures ensure quality
pain control?
