Disparities, Inequities, and Injustices in Populations With Pain: Nursing Recommendations Supporting ASPMN's 2024...

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Health Equity
• Pain Management

Background:

• The American Society for Pain Management Nursing (ASPMN) recognizes that all individuals deserve equitable, high-quality pain assessment and treatment.
• Existing disparities, inequities, and injustices in pain care disproportionately affect marginalized and at-risk populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize known pain-related disparities, inequities, and injustices.
• To provide recommendations for ensuring just and equitable pain care for all.
• To issue a call to action for nurses to foster diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging to mitigate these issues.

Main Methods:

• This practice recommendation is based on a review of current literature and expert consensus.
• It synthesizes evidence on pain disparities and develops actionable recommendations.
• The paper serves as the background and rationale for the 2024 ASPMN position statement.

Main Results:

• Identifies specific disparities, inequities, and injustices in pain assessment and management experienced by various marginalized groups.
• Offers concrete recommendations for clinical practice, nursing education, and policy change.
• Highlights the critical role of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in achieving equitable pain care.

Conclusions:

• Addressing pain-related disparities, inequities, and injustices is a nursing imperative.
• Nurses must actively promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging to ensure equitable pain care.
• The 2024 ASPMN position statement provides a framework for mitigating these issues within healthcare and the nursing profession.