Pain Management Best Practice with Older Adults: Effects of Training on Staff Knowledge, Attitudes, and Patient Outcomes

Abstract

This study examined the effects of staff training regarding best practice of pain management on knowledge and attitudes and patient outcomes in a rehabilitation hospital. Nursing, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy staff (N = 75) viewed videos based on the 2002 American Geriatrics Society (AGS) clinical practice guidelines. Training resulted in improved pain management knowledge and attitudes (p < .002), as measured by “barriers to the assessment and treatment of pain” questionnaire () and by higher frequency of documentation of pain ratings up to 5 months after training (p < .05) as determined through chart audits. Length of stay decreased by 4 to 6 days, and functional outcomes improved, possibly indicating an improvement in efficiency of patient recovery after staff training.

KEYWORDS:

• Best practice
• geriatric rehabilitation
• pain management
• staff training

Notes

1. Malinger: one who deliberately feigns or exaggerates the symptoms of illness or injury to attain a consciously desired end.

2. Psychogenic: having an emotional or psychological origin.