Workshop Manual - Faculty of pain medicine - Australian and New ...
Workshop Manual - Faculty of pain medicine - Australian and New ...
Workshop Manual - Faculty of pain medicine - Australian and New ...
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Acute <strong>pain</strong> is a symptom <strong>of</strong> tissue injury. Untreated <strong>pain</strong> causes<br />
inflammatory changes in the body which may have harmful physical<br />
<strong>and</strong> psychological effects. In addition, poorly treated acute <strong>pain</strong> may<br />
progress to chronic <strong>pain</strong>.<br />
There are benefits <strong>of</strong> effective <strong>pain</strong> management for both the patient,<br />
the patient’s family, <strong>and</strong> society (hospital <strong>and</strong> wider community).<br />
For the patient:<br />
• Treating <strong>pain</strong> is the “humane” thing to do<br />
— Less suffering<br />
— Greater dignity (especially for patients dying with<br />
cancer <strong>pain</strong>)<br />
• Fewer physical problems<br />
— Improved sleep, better appetite<br />
— Quicker recovery after injury or surgery<br />
— Lower risk <strong>of</strong> pneumonia<br />
(e.g. after abdominal surgery)<br />
— Lower risk <strong>of</strong> thrombosis if able to mobilise earlier<br />
• Fewer psychological problems<br />
— Less depression <strong>and</strong> anxiety<br />
For the family:<br />
• Able to function as part <strong>of</strong> the family<br />
• Able to provide for the family<br />
For society:<br />
• Lower health costs<br />
— Patients are discharged earlier<br />
— Patients are less likely to be readmitted<br />
• Patients are able to work <strong>and</strong> contribute to the community<br />
WHY TREAT PAIN<br />
ESSENTIAL PAIN MANAGEMENT 7
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