Geriatric Pain Management Competencies
Geriatric Pain Management Competencies
In collaboration with the interdisciplinary team, the nurse competent in pain management for older adults has knowledge and skill to:
Explain and apply information to clarify common misconceptions about pain in older adults and the barriers to effective treatment.
Explain the etiologies and characteristics of, and differences in treatment for, nociceptive and neuropathic pain.
Explain potential consequences of untreated pain specific to older adults.
Select and use valid and reliable pain assessment tools for assessing pain in cognitively intact individuals.
Describe approach to identifying and evaluating pain in cognitively impaired older adults, including selecting and using valid and reliable pain assessment tools.
Recognize verbal and nonverbal behaviors which can be indicative of pain in a cognitively impaired person.
Apply information about specific physiological age-related factors that influence the assessment and management of pain in older adult.
Develop and implement an individualized treatment plan for managing pain based on assessment, functional and cognitive abilities, and the older person’s pain treatment goals.
Evaluate the effectiveness of an individualized treatment plan for pain and adapt the plan based on changing pain assessment data.
Identify appropriate analgesic drugs and doses, taking into account the physiologic changes commonly seen in older individuals and interactions with other prescribed and over-the-counter medications.
Identify medications that should be avoided or used with caution in older adults and explain their adverse effects.
Identify and implement treatment strategies to avoid the adverse effects of analgesic drugs in older adults with renal and hepatic impairment
Recognize common side effects of opioids and apply treatment strategies to prevent, minimize and/or treat side effects.
Identify characteristics of older adults at risk for adverse effects of prolonged use of NSAIDS.
Incorporate appropriate adjuvant drugs into the treatment plan for select painful conditions.
Select appropriate non-pharmacological pain treatment strategies tailored to the unique needs, abilities and preferences of the older adult.
Explain the role of the interdisciplinary team in pain management.
Advocate for timely and appropriate treatment of pain for all older adults in the long-term care setting.
Articulate accreditation and regulatory requirements pertinent to long-term-care settings related to pain management.
Geriatric Pain Management Competencies
Introduction
As a nurse competent in pain management for older adults, collaboration with the interdisciplinary team is essential to ensure the well-being of elderly patients. This presentation outlines key competencies required for effective pain management in older adults.
Clarifying Misconceptions and Barriers
Explain common misconceptions about pain in older adults and barriers to effective treatment.
Address ageism and its impact on pain management in the elderly population.
Understanding Nociceptive and Neuropathic Pain
Differentiate between nociceptive and neuropathic pain.
Discuss etiologies, characteristics, and treatment approaches for each type of pain.
Consequences of Untreated Pain
Outline potential consequences of untreated pain specific to older adults, such as functional decline and decreased quality of life.
Pain Assessment Tools
Select and utilize valid and reliable pain assessment tools for cognitively intact individuals.
Describe approaches for assessing pain in cognitively impaired older adults.
Recognition of Pain Indicators
Recognize verbal and nonverbal behaviors indicative of pain in cognitively impaired individuals.
Highlight the importance of keen observation and communication in pain assessment.
Physiological Age-Related Factors
Explain physiological age-related factors influencing pain assessment and management in older adults.
Address considerations such as altered pharmacokinetics and increased susceptibility to adverse effects.
Individualized Treatment Plans
Develop personalized treatment plans based on assessment, functional abilities, cognitive status, and patient preferences.
Emphasize the significance of tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of older adults.
Evaluation and Adaptation of Treatment Plans
Evaluate the effectiveness of treatment plans through ongoing assessment.
Demonstrate the ability to adapt treatment strategies based on evolving pain assessment data.
Pharmacological Considerations
Identify appropriate analgesic drugs and dosages considering physiological changes in older individuals.
Discuss medication interactions and adverse effects in older adults.
Adverse Effects Management
Implement strategies to prevent and manage adverse effects of analgesic drugs in older adults with renal and hepatic impairment.
Address common side effects of opioids and provide treatment interventions.
NSAIDs Use in Older Adults
Identify characteristics of older adults at risk for adverse effects from prolonged NSAID use.
Propose alternative treatment strategies to mitigate risks associated with NSAIDs.
Non-pharmacological Interventions
Incorporate non-pharmacological pain treatment options tailored to individual preferences and needs.
Discuss the benefits of complementary therapies in pain management for older adults.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Highlight the role of the interdisciplinary team in comprehensive pain management.
Emphasize effective communication and coordination among team members.
Advocacy and Regulatory Compliance
Advocate for timely and appropriate pain treatment for all older adults in long-term care settings.
Address accreditation and regulatory requirements relevant to pain management in long-term care facilities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering these competencies is essential for nurses involved in geriatric pain management. By adopting a holistic approach and prioritizing individualized care, healthcare professionals can enhance the well-being of older adults facing pain-related challenges.