The assessment of pain level among an adult ventilated patients in the intensive care unit

Abstract

Introduction: Pain is a subjective impression, which means that its intensity can only be determined by the person who experiences it. Intensive care patients, often intubated, mechanically ventilated, are unable to determine the intensity of pain in a verbal manner. The pain experienced in these patients may occur both at rest and during various diagnostic, treatment or care procedures. Diagnosis and accurate assessment of pain are the basis for effective pain management. In modern practice, the nursing usually deals with the assessment and it is she who chooses the tool for the patient’s needs. Aim of the study: Analysis of pain complaints of mechanical ventilation patients, using the Polish version of the CPOT scale. Material and methods: The study was conducted using a prospective method, using a standardized CPOT pain assessment scale. The technique of the study consisted in observing patients at rest and during performing nursing procedures, such as tracheal suction and replacement of dressings. 58 patients were qualified for the study at the one of hospital in the Pomeranian province. Results: 20.7% of examined patients experience pain at rest. During tracheal suction, this percentage increased to 60.3%. During the replacement of the dressing, pain was felt by 31%. Conclusion: Mechanically ventilated patients experience pain both at rest and during routine nursing procedures.