Remedial action in the management of wound-related pain

Wound-related pain, particularly following wound care interventions, is a concern to all involved in wound management. However, little is understood about how remedial action to manage such pain can affect healthcare provision, particularly in terms of resources. This article describes a Delphi study - a process of gaining expert consensus in a particular area - identifying the main factors influenced by the presence of pain at wound dressing change. It was found that the presence of pain influences the choice and frequency of analgesia, use of anxiolytic medications, frequency of dressing change and the environment in which care is provided. These results can help clinicians to understand the close relationship that exists between pain and clinical intervention, and the implications for resource management.