A new pain approach focuses on prevention
The challenge: A growing body of literature suggests that pain is under-recognized and under-treated in children with disabilities.
The solution: To shift the focus from treating pain to preventing it, Bloorview works with SickKids to roll out four pain assessment tools that track pain – even in kids who can’t verbalize it; anticipates and treats pain prior to therapy or procedures; makes pain management the responsibility of the entire rehab team; offers distraction and relaxation methods; and educates families. Children need to feel safe in their hospital rooms, so painful or anxiety-provoking procedures are done in this treatment room painted like an ocean that includes a flat screen TV, distractions toys and fibre-optic lights.
Next steps: Nurse educators partner with scientists from the Bloorview Research Institute and the University of Ottawa to measure whether children’s average pain scores decline as a result of the new practices. Their study will also test nurse knowledge and attitudes about pain management prior to, and following, education workshops.
150 Kilgour Road, Toronto Ontario Canada M4G 1R8 Tel: 416 425 6220 Toll Free: 800 363 2440. A teaching hospital fully affiliated with the University of Toronto
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