1. Every patient is assessed for level of pain at the point of entry to University Hospital.
2. Continuing reassessment of pain is conducted at least once a shift during the biophysical assessment or according to protocol.
3. Age specific pain scales are utilized according to appropriate protocols

• A multi-language pain scale is available on each unit for non-English speaking patients.
• Comfort assessment is utilized in adult and adolescent patients in absence of self-reporting tool.
• Protocol 30 is followed for adult patients.
• Protocol 128 is followed for neonates.
• Protocol 127 is followed for labor and delivery patients.
• Protocol 8 is followed for adult patients on PCA's.
• Protocol 7 is followed for adult patients on epidural/intrathecal analgesia.

4. Pain Protocols are evaluated every 24 hours to assess patient's status.
5. Upon discharge, patients are supported with educational information regarding pain management as needed.
6. Chart audits are conducted routinely to assess the documentation of pain assessment at admission, during the biophysical assessment, and per protocol documentation requirements.

Other pertinent links:

Guideline P

Pain Management

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