How to obtain the biopsychosocial record in multidisciplinary pain clinic? An action research study

Abstract

Abstract Background Patients with complicated chronic non-malignant pain (CCNMP) should be referred to the multidisciplinary treatment based on the biopsychosocial pain model. This is not a trivial task to obtain the biopsychosocial record (BPSR) during the first visit in multidisciplinary pain center – some important data can be missing, but it is difficult to choose the right questions. Purpose To find the optimal method for obtaining of BPSR in patients with CCNMP. Methods The action research methodology is used. First, the literature search was done. Second, the meetings between therapists were hold. Third, the patients are asked about their experiences with obtaining of BPSR. Results The following area of interest were identified: (1) patient’s demographic data, (2) lifestyle factors, (3) previous diseases, (4) concurrent diseases, (5) previous pain treatments, (6) pain intensity and effect of the actual pain treatment, (7) general activity, (8) mood, (9) walking activity, (10) work ability, (11) home activities, (12) relations with other people, (13) sleep, (14) enjoyment of life, (15) patients expectations from treatment, and (16) treatment goals. Patients are asked about those variables. Either Visual Analogue Scale or Numeric Rating Scale is used for assessment of pain intensity and pain influence on variables (7) to (14). First, data about variables (1) to (6) are collected by the physician. Next, data about variables (7) to (15) are gathered under interview with the nurse. Last, the physician and the nurse keep the meeting on treatment goals and treatment course. Up to date (February 2017), 8 patients were asked about their experience with obtaining of BPSR. All but one patient were very satisfied. Conclusions The method presented above seems to be promising approach to obtaining of BPSJ in patients with CCNMP. The study is ongoing and updated results will be presented at the conference.