Measuring Changes in Acute Pain in the Emergency Department Using Patient Reported Scales

Measuring Changes in Acute Pain in the Emergency Department Using Patient Reported Scales

Patient reported pain, stress, and anxiety measures have been found to be inter-related, but it is not known if they are all associated with receiving opiate medications. The objective of this study is to determine if patients' degree of reported pain, stress, or anxiety is associated with receiving opiate pain medications in the emergency department or at discharge. Alert patients at least 18 years of age and who report pain greater than 3/10 are eligible to participate in the study. Consenting patients complete Visual Analog Scales describing their perceived pain, stress, and anxiety from enrollment until discharge. Demographic data and administration of pain medication is also recorded. Visual Analog Scale scores among patients who received an opioid pain medicine in the emergency department and at discharge will be compared to those who did not.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Reported pain greater than or equal to 3 out of 10

Exclusion Criteria:

• Less than 18 years of age
• Decreased level of consciousness
• Inability to answer questions
• Prisoner