Published
i agree this is a huge huge problem. i know my patients really well and assess for pain frequently during my shift. i may not get all my monthly summaries done ( and all that other redundant paperwork done) ,but my patients are pain -free.
pain mismanagement
Many of our very demented residents at my facility receive routine pain meds every 6 to 8 hours around the clock, in order to combat the abovementioned problem. Some receive Tylenol every 6 hours to control their DJD aches and pains, while others receive tramadol every 6 hours. Still, others receive MS contin or Oxycontin if they have dx of terminal cancer. The most common ATC pain med being prescribed at my place of employment seems to be Darvocet every 6 hours. Hydrocodone is also a popular one.
NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN
10 Articles; 19,196 Posts
one family's story along with ways to prevent mismanagement
pain mismanagement
nursing homes, june, 2007 by linda williams