An Audit On Pain Management At Emergency Department KNH

Abstract

Pain has been found to be one of the most common complaints causing patients to visit emergency departments. Pain management is a global issue and is particularly challenging in the emergency care environment. The aim of the audit was to identify factors that contribute to significant gaps in pain management among trauma patients who sought treatment at emergency department of KNH. An audit on factors that contribute to gaps on pain management was carried out for two days in March 2012. Clinicians were observed offering care to 100 trauma patients as they arrived at ED department. A structured checklist was used to audit valuables on time taken before trauma patients were given analgesics, availability of Resources and Professional practices. The results showed that majority of the patients (35%) were aged 21–30years, Patients given analgesics within 0-30minutes were 26 % while 57% of patients received analgesics within 31-60minutes. Patients not given analgesic were 7%. Space contributed to 10% delay while 5% was due to supplies and documentation contributed to 20%. No patient was managed by use of pain management protocols/Guidelines. In conclusion the audit identified good pain management practices as well as gaps