Pain Management in an Adult Sickle Cell Infusion Center: A Quality Improvement Project

Abstract

Abstract 
 Background and Purpose
 The purpose of this quality improvement project was to change the admission/treatment process for patients during sickle cell vaso-occlusive crisis with the intent of positively influencing patients’ perceptions of pain management and improving patient satisfaction ratings.
 Method
 A structured survey regarding demographic data and patients experiences were obtained from 30 participants from the sickle cell clinic. 
 Results
 An overall 63% (n-19) satisfaction rating among patients with the sickle cell infusion clinic revised process in comparison to the old process of presenting to the emergency room for treatment.
 Conclusion
 The change in the process for admission/treatment positively influence their perception of managing their pain during vaso-occlusive crisis.
 Implications for Practice
 Although there was overall satisfaction with the new process, having an additional nurse during this time appeared to have decreased door to first dose of intravenous pain medication time. Therefore, the idea of adding a FTE to this operation is supported.