Pain prevalence in a pediatric hospital: Raising awareness during Pain Awareness Week

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Despite the evidence and availability of numerous validated pain assessment tools and pain management strategies for infants and children, their use remains inconsistent in clinical practice. OBJECTIVES: To describe the prevalence of pain, pain assessment and pain management practices at a tertiary pediatric hospital in Canada. METHODS: The cross-sectional study design involved a combination of interviews with children and/or caregivers, and chart audits in five inpatient units. Information regarding pain intensity, painful procedures and pain management strategies was obtained from children and/or caregivers by interview. Patient charts were reviewed for information regarding pa..