The pain referent: place in the team and leadership

Abstract

The pain referent works in close proximity to patients, and holds this specific position in addition to his or her core job. As part of an overall policy to improve pain management within healthcare establishments, their main mission is to help harmonize the practices and knowledge of healthcare professionals. They can carry out a wide range of activities, and there is currently considerable variability in the way they do so. It is essential to provide them with support through training, links with the institution via the pain control committee in particular, and local management, but also to recognize their involvement.