Pain Management
Definition: The systematic assessment, treatment, and monitoring of pain in nursing home residents, including both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions tailored to each resident's needs and preferences.
In Practice
CMS expects facilities to assess pain upon admission and regularly thereafter using validated tools, implement individualized pain management plans, and monitor effectiveness. Both under-treatment and over-treatment of pain can result in deficiencies. Special attention is given to residents with cognitive impairment who may not be able to verbalize pain.