Posters by Dr. Barbara Mawn, Dr. Susan Houde and Dr. Laural Radwin were available for viewing and discussion. Current research reveals that the patient s self-report of pain is the single most reliable indicator of pain.
Pain management is filled with ethical dilemmas.
Double effect deals with issue of intent and the ethical mandate of treating pain even if in treating the pain death is hastened. Proper pain assessment includes evaluating physical, psychological, learning, social and spiritual factors. Age appropriate standardized pain scales and documentation should be used. Healthcare providers must demonstrate competency in assessment and evaluating and treating pain.