Workshop helps nurses develop pain management techniques

Recognizing that nurses' attitudes, their knowledge of medications, and their communication practices can influence pain management effectiveness, health care professionals at St. John's Hospital, Springfield, IL, developed a workshop to educate registered nurses and licensed practical nurses on the pharmacology and uses of analgesics. The eight-hour workshop incorporated lectures, role playing, audiovisuals, and case study applications. To evaluate the program, a questionnaire was distributed to participants three months after the workshop. Responses indicated that nurses believed they had improved their pain management skills, and project coordinators' observations on the subacute and acute care nursing units confirmed this. For example, nurses communicated pain assessments and medication follow-ups more frequently. A pain intensity scale and a pain relief worksheet were designed to assist nurses in charting patients' medication needs. The nurses also developed confidence in discussing patients' needs with physicians. If an analgesic failed to control a patient's pain, the nurses became more assertive in asking for a more effective medication. The workshops, which helped promote cooperation among physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and other health care professionals, now are presented regularly to new nursing staff as an ongoing part of St. Joseph's pain management education program.