Sensitivity and specificity of the critical-care pain observation tool for the detection of pain in intubated adults after cardiac surgery

Correlation of the Critical Care Pain Observation Tool and Numeric Rating Scale in Intensive Care Unit Patients

PURPOSE

We sought to determine the correlation between the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) to determine whether clinical factors modified the relationship between NRS and CPOT assessments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We included nonventilated adults admitted to the MICU or SICU who could self-report pain and had at least 3 paired NRS and CPOT assessments. We performed Spearman correlation to assess overall correlation and performed proportional odds logistic regression to evaluate whether the relationship between NRS and CPOT assessments was modified by clinical factors.

RESULTS

Nursing staff performed NRS and CPOT assessments every 4 h in 1302 patients, leading to 61,142 matched assessments. We found that the NRS and CPOT have a Spearman correlation coefficient of 0.56 and an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.32 in intensive care unit patients. Factors that modified the relationship between the NRS and CPOT included the presence of delirium (P < .001) and lower mean daily Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale (<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The correlation coefficient between the NRS and the CPOT was found to be 0.56. The presence of delirium, decreased level of arousal, modified the relationship between the NRS and CPOT. Self-reported and behavioral pain assessments cannot be used interchangeably in critically ill adults.

Implementation of Multimodal Pain Protocol Associated With Opioid Use Reduction in Trauma Patients

INTRODUCTION

Many trauma centers have adopted multimodal pain protocols (MMPPs) to provide safe and effective pain control. The objective was to evaluate the association of a protocol on opioid use in trauma patients and patient-reported pain scores.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of adult trauma patients admitted from 7/1-9/30/2018 to 7/1-9/30/2019 at an urban academic level 1 trauma center. The MMPP consisted of scheduled nonopioid medications implemented on July 1, 2019. Patients were stratified by level of care upon admission, intensive care unit (ICU) or floor, and by injury severity score (ISS) (ISS < 16 or ISS ≥ 16). Pain scores, opioid, and nonopioid analgesic medication use were compared for the hospital stay or first 30 d.

RESULTS

Seven hundred ninety eight patients were included with a mean age of 54 ± 22 y and 511 (64.0%) were men. Demographic and clinical characteristics between those in the pre-MMP (n = 404) and post-MMPP (n = 394) groups were not different. The average pain scores were not different between the two groups (3.7 versus 3.8, P = 0.44), but patients in the post-MMPP group received 36% less morphine milliequivalents (109.6 versus 70; P < 0.0001). The MMPP had the largest effect on patients admitted to the ICU regardless of injury severity. ICU patients with ISS ≥ 16 had the greatest reduction in morphine milliequivalents (174.6 versus 84.4; P < 0.0001). The use of nonopioid analgesics was significantly increased in all groups.

CONCLUSIONS

A MMPP is associated with a reduction of opioids and increase in nonopioid analgesics with no difference in patient-reported pain scores.

The Effect of Training the Nonverbal Pain Scale (NVPS) on the Ability of Nurses to Monitor the Pain of Patients in the Intensive Care Unit

Introduction

Pain in the intensive care unit is a silent fact. Considering the positive features of the nonverbal pain scale (NVPS) in assessing the pain of non-verbal patients, this study investigates the effect of training the NVPS on the ability of nurses to monitor the pain of patients in the intensive care unit.

Materials and methods

In this semi-experimental study, the effect of the NVPS training on the ability of 50 intensive care unit (ICU) nurses of Imam Khomeini Hospital affiliated to Ahvaz University of Medical Sciences was investigated. At first, the ability to diagnose the presence and intensity of pain was checked by a checklist. Then the nurses were taught how to use the scale correctly. After 2 weeks of training completion, the ability to correctly use the scale was measured again. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (McNemar, Chi-squared, paired t-test, and Fisher's exact test) in SPSS software version 16.

Results

After the training on the non-verbal pain scale, there was a significant difference between the intervention and control groups in diagnosing the presence of pain related to changing the patient's position (p = 0.023). Also, nurses ability to diagnose pain intensity during airway suction increased fourfold and for physiotherapy procedures twice as much as before training.

Conclusion

Nonverbal pain scale training improves ICU nurses ability in diagnosing the presence and severity of pain in nonverbal patients.

How to cite this article

Ghayem H, Heidari MR, Aghaei B, Norouzadeh R. The Effect of Training the Nonverbal Pain Scale (NVPS) on the Ability of Nurses to Monitor the Pain of Patients in the Intensive Care Unit. Indian J Crit Care Med 2023;27(3):195-200.

Validation of the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) in pediatric patients undergoing orthopedic surgery

Background

Postoperative pain cannot be measured accurately among many children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, resulting in underrecognition or delay in recognition of pain. The Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) is a pain assessment tool that has been widely validated in critically ill and postoperative adults.

Aims

The objective of this study was to validate the CPOT for use with pediatric patients able to self-report and undergoing posterior spinal fusion surgery.

Methods

Twenty-four patients (10-18 years old) scheduled to undergo surgery were consented to this repeated-measure, within-subject study. To examine discriminative and criterion validation, CPOT scores and patients' self-reports of pain intensity were collected prospectively by a bedside rater before, during, and after a nonnociceptive and nociceptive procedure on the day following surgery. Patients' behavioral reactions were video recorded at the bedside and retrospectively viewed by two independent video raters to examine interrater and intrarater reliability of CPOT scores.

Results

Discriminative validation was supported with higher CPOT scores during the nociceptive procedure than during the nonnociceptive procedure. Criterion validation was supported with a moderate positive correlation between the CPOT scores and the patients' self-reported pain intensity during the nociceptive procedure. A CPOT cutoff score of ≥2 was associated with the maximum sensitivity (61.3%) and specificity (94.1%). Reliability analyses revealed poor to moderate agreement between bedside and video raters and moderate to excellent consistency within video raters.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the CPOT may be a valid tool to detect pain in pediatric patients in the acute postoperative inpatient care unit after posterior spinal fusion.

Incidence, characteristics and risk factors of delirium in the intensive care unit: An observational study

AIMS AND OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence, characteristics and risk factors of delirium in the ICU.

BACKGROUND

Identifying the risk factors of delirium is important for early detection and to prevent adverse consequences.

DESIGN

An observational cohort study conducted according to STROBE Guidelines.

METHOD

The study was conducted with patients who stayed in ICU ≥24 h and were older than 18 years. Patients were assessed twice daily using the RASS and CAM-ICU until either discharge or death. Cumulative incidence was calculated. Demographic/clinical characteristics, length of stay and mortality were compared between patients with and without delirium. A logistic regression model was used to investigate risk factors.

RESULTS

The incidence of delirium was 31.8% and hypoactive type was the most frequent (41.5%). The median onset of delirium was 3 days (IQR = 2) with a mean duration of 5.27 ± 2.32 days. Patients with delirium were significantly older, had higher APACHE-II, SOFA and CPOT scores, higher blood urea levels, higher requirements for mechanical ventilation, sedation and physical restraints, longer stays in the ICU and higher mortality than those without delirium. The logistic regression analysis results revealed that a CPOT score ≥3 points (OR = 4.70, 95% CI: 1.05-20.93; p = .042), physical restraint (OR = 10.40, 95% CI: 2.75-39.27; p = .001) and ICU stay ≥7 days (OR = 7.26, 95% CI: 1.60-32.84; p = .010) were independent risk factors of delirium.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, the incidence of delirium was high and associated with several factors. It is critical that delirium is considered by all members of the healthcare team, especially nurses, and that protocols are established for improvements.

RELEVANCE TO THE CLINICAL PRACTICE

Based on the results of this study, delirium could be decreased by preventing the presence of pain, prudent use of physical restraints and shortening the ICU stay.

Validation of the Turkish version of the Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire in patients with chronic pain

Objective

The Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire (PSQ) is a clinically beneficial instrument that has been proven to be correlated with various experimental pain sensitivity assessments in healthy people and in patients with chronic pain. In this study, we aimed to translate the PSQ into Turkish (PSQ-T) and validate it for the measurement of pain sensitivity among Turkish people.

Methods

Seventy-three patients with chronic back pain who were planning to undergo an interventional procedure completed the Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form (BPI-SF), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Inventory, Pain Catastrophizing Scale, and PSQ prior to their procedure. Subcutaneous infiltration of lidocaine was used as a standardized experimental pain stimulus. Pain was evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS 1: infiltration in the hand, and VAS 2: infiltration in the procedure area)

Results

Scores on the PSQ-T were significantly correlated with those on the BPI-SF. A significant positive relationship was observed between VAS 1 and VAS 2 values and the PSQ-T score, BPI pain score, and BPI interference score.

Conclusions

The PSQ-T can be used as a valid and reliable tool for the assessment of pain sensitivity in the Turkish population.

Determinants of pain assessment documentation in intensive care units

PURPOSE

The underassessment of pain is a major barrier to effective pain management, and the lack of pain assessment documentation has been associated with negative patient outcomes. This study aimed to 1) describe the contextual factors related to pain assessment and management in five Québec intensive care units (ICUs); 2) describe their pain assessment documentation practices; and 3) identify sociodemographic and clinical determinants related to pain assessment documentation.

METHODS

A descriptive-correlational retrospective design was used. Sociodemographic data (i.e., age, sex), clinical data (i.e., diagnosis, mechanical ventilation, level of consciousness, severity of illness, opioids, sedatives), and pain assessments were extracted from 345 medical charts of ICU admissions from five teaching hospitals between 2017 and 2019. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression were performed.

RESULTS

All sites reported using the 0-10 numeric rating scale, but the implementation of a behavioural pain scale was variable across sites. A median of three documented pain assessments were performed per 24 hr, which is below the minimal recommendation of eight to 12 pain assessments per 24 hr. Overall, pain assessment was present in 70% of charts, but only 20% of opioid doses were followed by documented pain reassessment within one hour post-administration. Higher level of consciousness (β = 0.37), using only breakthrough doses (β = 0.24), and lower opioid doses (β = -0.21) were significant determinants of pain assessment documentation (adjusted R2 = 0.25).

CONCLUSION

Pain assessment documentation is suboptimal in ICUs, especially for patients unable to self-report or those receiving higher opioid doses. Study findings highlight the need to implement tools to optimize pain assessment and documentation.

Pain assessment of the adult sedated and ventilated patients in the intensive care setting: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Pain is frequently encountered in the intensive care setting. Given the impact of pain assessment on patient outcomes and length of hospital stay, studies have been conducted to validate tools, establish guidelines and cast light on practices relating to pain assessment.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the extent, range and nature of the evidence around pain assessment practices in adult patients who cannot self-report pain in the intensive care setting and summarise the findings from a heterogenous body of evidence to aid in the planning and the conduct of future research and management of patient care. The specific patient cohort studied was the sedated/ ventilated patient within the intensive care setting.

DESIGN

A scoping review protocol utilised the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping review checklist (PRISMA-ScR).

METHODS

The review comprised of five phases: identifying the research question, identifying relevant studies, study selection, charting the data and collating, summarizing, and reporting the results. Databases were systematically searched from January to April 2020. Databases included were Scopus, Web of Science, Medline via Ovid, CINAHL COMPLETE via EBSCO host, Health Source and PUBMED. Limits were applied on dates (2000 to current), language (English), subject (human) and age (adult). Key words used were "pain", "assessment", "measurement", "tools", "instruments", "practices", "sedated", "ventilated", "adult". A hand search technique was used to search citations within articles. Database alerts were set to apprise the availability of research articles pertaining to pain assessment practices in the intensive care setting.

RESULTS

The review uncovered literature categorised under five general themes: behaviour pain assessment tools, pain assessment guidelines, position statements and quality improvement projects, enablers and barriers to pain assessment, and evidence appertaining to actual practices. Behaviour pain assessment tools are the benchmark for pain assessment of sedated and ventilated patients. The reliability and validity of physiologic parameters to assess pain is yet to be determined. Issues of compliance with pain assessment guidelines and tools exist and impact on practices. In some countries like Australia, there is a dearth of information regarding the prevalence and characteristics of patients receiving analgesia, type of analgesia used, pain assessment practices and the process of recording pain management. In general, pain assessment varies across different intensive care settings and lacks consistency.

CONCLUSION

Research on pain assessment practices requires further investigation to explore the causative mechanisms that contribute to poor compliance with established pain management guidelines. The protocol of this review was registered with Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/25a6) Tweetable abstract: Pain assessment in intensive care settings lacks consistency. New information is needed to understand the causative mechanisms underpinning poor compliance with guidelines.

Authorized Agent-Controlled Analgesia for Pain Management in Critically Ill Adult Patients

BACKGROUND

Patient-controlled analgesia is commonly used for adult patients requiring parenteral opioid analgesia in the postoperative setting. However, many patients are unable to use patient-controlled analgesia because of physical or cognitive limitations. Authorized agent-controlled analgesia, in which a nurse or family member activates the patient-controlled analgesia device, has been studied in the pediatric population but has received little attention in adults.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of authorized agent-controlled analgesia in critically ill adult patients.

METHODS

A retrospective pilot study was conducted involving 46 patients who were placed on an authorized agent-controlled analgesia protocol in a mixed medical/surgical adult intensive care unit. Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool scores were abstracted for the 24 hours before and after initiation of authorized agent-controlled analgesia. Authorized agent-controlled analgesia was administered by nurses only.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) change in pain score was -3.4 (2.0) (95% CI, -4.0 to -2.7), representing a 69% decrease in the mean (SD) pain score from before to after initiation of authorized agent-controlled analgesia (4.8 [1.8] vs 1.5 [1.6]; P < .001). When the results were controlled for time, sedative administration, and opioid medication administration, the effect of authorized agent-controlled analgesia initiation on pain scores remained significant (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Use of authorized agent-controlled analgesia is associated with a reduction in pain in critically ill patients. Larger studies are warranted to confirm these findings.

Validation of the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool-Neuro in brain-injured adults in the intensive care unit: a prospective cohort study

Background

Pain assessment in brain-injured patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) is challenging and existing scales may not be representative of behavioral reactions expressed by this specific group. This study aimed to validate the French-Canadian and English revised versions of the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT-Neuro) for brain-injured ICU patients.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted in three Canadian and one American sites. Patients with a traumatic or a non-traumatic brain injury were assessed with the CPOT-Neuro by trained raters (i.e., research staff and ICU nurses) before, during, and after nociceptive procedures (i.e., turning and other) and non-nociceptive procedures (i.e., non-invasive blood pressure, soft touch). Patients who were conscious and delirium-free were asked to provide their self-report of pain intensity (0–10). A first data set was completed for all participants (n = 226), and a second data set (n = 87) was obtained when a change in the level of consciousness (LOC) was observed after study enrollment. Three LOC groups were included: (a) unconscious (Glasgow Coma Scale or GCS 4–8); (b) altered LOC (GCS 9–12); and (c) conscious (GCS 13–15).

Results

Higher CPOT-Neuro scores were found during nociceptive procedures compared to rest and non-nociceptive procedures in both data sets (p < 0.001). CPOT-Neuro scores were not different across LOC groups. Moderate correlations between CPOT-Neuro and self-reported pain intensity scores were found at rest and during nociceptive procedures (Spearman rho > 0.40 and > 0.60, respectively). CPOT-Neuro cut-off scores ≥ 2 and ≥ 3 were found to adequately classify mild to severe self-reported pain ≥ 1 and moderate to severe self-reported pain ≥ 5, respectively. Interrater reliability of raters’ CPOT-Neuro scores was supported with intraclass correlation coefficients > 0.69.

Conclusions

The CPOT-Neuro was found to be valid in this multi-site sample of brain-injured ICU patients at various LOC. Implementation studies are necessary to evaluate the tool’s performance in clinical practice.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13054-021-03561-1.

The Diagnostic Accuracy of Critical Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) in ICU Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

The critical care pain observation tool (CPOT) has been widely used to assess pain in ICU patients, and its validity and reliability have been tested in various contexts.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of the CPOT in critically ill patients, a systematic review of diagnostic studies was performed.

METHODS

A database search (PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, ProQuest, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang, COVIP, CBM) was conducted, as was the manual identification of eligible papers from citations. Eligible studies were published between 2006 and February 2020. Quality appraisal of the studies was carried out with the QUADAS-2 checklist, and data extraction was performed in alignment with STARD 2015. Open Meta Analyst was used for the statistical analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 25 articles involving 1920 subjects with 3493 experimental results were included. Most of the studies were of fair quality. A high degree of heterogeneity (I² = 57.2%, P < 0.001) was discovered. The Youden index values were 1.56 and 1.55 when the CPOT threshold was set at two and three, respectively. The diagnostic performance of the CPOT was affected by the reference standard. The CPOT had a higher diagnostic odds ratio of 11.52 (95% CI: 7.42-17.87) during nociceptive procedures compared with 9.14 (95% CI: 5.38-15.53) at rest or during non-nociceptive procedures.

CONCLUSION

CPOT has moderate diagnostic parameters with a threshold of two or three, suggesting that it is a fair but not excellent tool. More research on the validity of the CPOT in specific subgroups is needed to broaden its applicability in critical care.

A Psychometric Analysis Update of Behavioral Pain Assessment Tools for Noncommunicative, Critically Ill Adults

This is an updated, comprehensive review of the psychometric properties of behavioral pain assessment tools for use with noncommunicative, critically ill adults. Articles were searched in 5 health databases. A total of 106 articles were analyzed, including 54 recently published papers. Nine behavioral pain assessment tools developed for noncommunicative critically ill adults and 4 tools developed for other non-communicative populations were included. The scale development process, reliability, validity, feasibility, and clinical utility were analyzed using a 0 to 20 scoring system, and quality of evidence was also evaluated. The Behavioral Pain Scale, the Behavioral Pain Scale-Nonintubated, and the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool remain the tools with the strongest psychometric properties, with validation testing having been conducted in multiple countries and various languages. Other tools may be good alternatives, but additional research on them is necessary.

Translation into Spanish and Cultural Adaptation of the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool

BACKGROUND

The Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) is recommended for evaluating pain behaviors in patients in the intensive care unit who are unable to report pain. The source of the only published Spanish version of the CPOT does not verify that it underwent a formal translation process.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the translation into Spanish and cultural adaptation of the original French version of the CPOT.

METHODS

Key persons in the translation process included one with a master's degree in translation, a critical care physician, nurse faculty members with vast experience in intensive care units, and the instrument's developer. This team followed the Principles of Good Practice for the Translation and Cultural Adaptation Process for Patient-Reported Outcomes Measures as a guide to translate and culturally adapt the CPOT.

RESULTS

The first Spanish-language version was back translated to French and was also compared with the English version. Revisions necessitated a second version, which was submitted to experts in critical care. Their modifications required a third version, which was back translated to French and discussed with the CPOT developer, after which a fourth version was created. Finally, a linguistic expert proofread the tool, and the translation leaders incorporated the recommendations, thereby obtaining a final Spanish version.

CONCLUSION

The Spanish version is ready to undergo validation with patients in the intensive care unit, which is the next step toward its use in assessing pain behaviors among patients in intensive care units where Spanish is spoken.

Exploration of the Nociception Level (NOL™) Index for Pain Assessment during Endotracheal Suctioning in Mechanically Ventilated Patients in the Intensive Care Unit: An Observational and Feasibility Study

BACKGROUND

Many patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) suffer from pain and are non-communicative. Therefore, alternative pain measures are necessary. Although behavioral pain measures are available, physiological measures are lacking. The Nociception Level index (NOL™) provides a value from combination of multiple physiological parameters to measure pain and its use in the ICU is new.

AIM

To explore the use of a multiple physiological parameter measure for pain assessment, the NOL™ index, in mechanically ventilated patients able to self-report pain in the ICU.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was performed. Data were collected before, during, and 15 minutes after a non-nociceptive procedure (noninvasive blood pressure using cuff inflation) and a nociceptive procedure (endotracheal suctioning). NOL index, 0 to 10 pain intensity, and Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) scores were also obtained. Data were analyzed using Friedman and Mann-Whitney tests. Feasibility of study procedures was described.

RESULTS

Out of 28 patients who consented, 17 remained eligible and data were analyzed for 15. Technical issues prevented obtaining a NOL signal in 2 patients. NOL values were higher during endotracheal suctioning (median = 41.6) compared with before (median = 11.2) and after the procedure (median = 11.8) and compared with cuff inflation (median = 15.1; Friedman test, p < .001). NOL values were associated with pain intensity and CPOT scores (Mann-Whitney tests, p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The study procedures with the NOL were found feasible; NOL values could discriminate between nociceptive and non-nociceptive procedures, and values were associated with reference pain measures. Further NOL testing is required in other ICU patient groups and procedures.

Validation of the Critical Care Pain Observational Tool in Palliative Care

PURPOSE

Pain assessment at the end of life remains a problem for patients who are unable to self-report their pain when transitioning across care settings. This study therefore tested the internal consistency and discriminant, concurrent, and convergent validity of the Critical-Care Pain Observational Tool (French version) when used with end-of-life patients in a palliative care setting.

DESIGN

This was a descriptive correlational study that used a repeated-measures within-subjects prospective design.

METHODS

The pain of 13 patients was assessed when at rest and during turning.

RESULTS

The internal consistency reliability coefficient alphas were .64 at rest and .70 during turning. Discriminant validity was shown by a decrease in the total Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool score. Concurrent validity was demonstrated by the association between the patients' self-report of pain and the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool score at rest (0.65, p < .016) and during turning (0.77, p = .002). Finally, the convergent validity between the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool score and the Algoplus scale score was demonstrated with a Spearman's correlation coefficient of 0.76 at rest and 0.84 during turning.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool can be used with end-of-life patients in French-speaking countries.

Implementing the ABCDEF Bundle: Top 8 Questions Asked During the ICU Liberation ABCDEF Bundle Improvement Collaborative

The ABCDEF bundle (A, assess, prevent, and manage pain; B, both spontaneous awakening and spontaneous breathing trials; C, choice of analgesic and sedation; D, delirium: assess, prevent, and manage; E, early mobility and exercise; and F, family engagement and empowerment) improves intensive care unit patient-centered outcomes and promotes interprofessional teamwork and collaboration. The Society of Critical Care Medicine recently completed the ICU Liberation ABCDEF Bundle Improvement Collaborative, a 20-month, multicenter, national quality improvement initiative that formalized dissemination and implementation strategies to promote effective adoption of the ABCDEF bundle. The purpose of this article is to describe 8 of the most frequently asked questions during the Collaborative and to provide practical advice from leading experts to other institutions implementing the ABCDEF bundle.

The effectiveness of systematic pain assessment on critically ill patient outcomes: A randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that critically ill patients' pain may still be underestimated. Systematic approaches to pain assessment are of paramount importance for improving patients' outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effectiveness of a systematic approach to pain assessment on the incidence and intensity of pain and related clinical outcomes in critically ill patients.

METHODS

Randomized controlled study with consecutive critically ill patients allocated to either a standard care only or a systematic pain assessment group. The Behavioral Pain Scale (BPS) and the Critical Pain Observation Tool (C-POT) were completed twice daily for all participants. In the intervention group, clinicians were notified of pain scores. Linear Mixed Models (LMM) for the longitudinal effect of the intervention were employed.

RESULTS

A total of 117 patients were included (control: n=61; intervention: n2=56). The incidence of pain (C-POT >2) in the intervention group was significantly lower compared to the control group (p < .001). The intervention had a statistically significant effect on pain intensity (BPS, p = 0.01). The average total morphine equivalent dose in the intervention group was higher than in the control group (p = 0.045), as well as the average total dose of propofol (p = 0.027). There were no statistically significant differences in ICU mortality (23.4% vs 19.3%, p=0.38, odds ratio 0.82 [0.337-1.997]) and length of ICU stay (13.5, SD 11.1 vs 13.9, SD 9.5 days, p= 0.47).

CONCLUSION

Systematic pain assessment may be associated with a decrease in the intensity and incidence of pain and influence the pharmacological management of pain and sedation of critically ill patients.

The German version of the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool for critically ill adults : A prospective validation study

BACKGROUND

The implementation of the Critical-Care Pain Observation tool (CPOT) in intensive care units (ICU) has been associated with more frequent pain assessments, a reduced number of complications, and improved administration of analgesics and sedatives. So far no German translation exists. Translating this tool into foreign languages requires further validation testing.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this prospective observational validation study was to translate the original version of the CPOT according to scientific principles for translation and to establish the validity and reliability of the German translation of CPOT for critically ill adult patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 292 cardiac surgery patients from 2 ICUs of 2 German university teaching hospitals were included (114 patients at center 1 and 178 patients at center 2). Of the included patients 22.6% were female and 76.4% were male with a mean age of 68.5 years ±9.3 SD. Pain was evaluated with the CPOT, the Bhavioral Pain Scale (BPS) and with the Numeric Rating scale (NRS) at three time points (1. intubated + sedated, 2. intubated + awake, 3. extubated + awake) at rest and during nociceptive stimulus (positioning). Assessments were made separately by trained physicians and nursing staff.

RESULTS

Good results for interrater reliability and internal consistency could be demonstrated (weighted Cohen's kappa of 0.73, Cronbach's coefficient alpha of 0.8). Spearman correlation between CPOT and NRS was moderate but significant. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis to obtain optimal thresholds of CPOT to detect pain revealed different results during rest and stimulus and in intubated and extubated patients.

CONCLUSION

The validated German CPOT translation is a reliable tool for pain assessment in cardiac ICU patients in the absence of patients' ability for self-reporting. The use of this German version of CPOT now allows a better international comparability of corresponding data in future studies.

Association between organizational characteristics and adequate pain management at the intensive care unit

PURPOSE

Half of the patients experience pain during their ICU stay which is known to influence their outcomes. Nurses and physicians encounter organizational barriers towards pain assessment and treatment. We aimed to evaluate the association between adequate pain management and nurse to patient ratio, bed occupancy rate, and fulltime presence of an intensivist.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed unadjusted and case-mix adjusted mixed-effect logistic regression modeling on data from thirteen Dutch ICUs to investigate the association between ICU organizational characteristics and adequate pain management, i.e. patient-shift observations in which patients' pain was measured and acceptable, or unacceptable and normalized within 1 h. All ICU patients admitted between December 2017 and June 2018 were included, excluding patients who were delirious, comatose or had a Glasgow coma score < 8 at the first day of ICU admission.

RESULTS

Case-mix adjusted nurse to patient ratios of 0.70 to 0.80 and over 0.80 were significantly associated with adequate pain management (OR [95% confidence interval] of respectively 1.14 [1.07-1.21] and 1.16 [1.08-1.24]). Bed occupancy rate and intensivist presence showed no association.

CONCLUSION

Higher nurse to patient ratios increase the percentage of patients with adequate pain management especially in medical and mechanically ventilated patients.

P-CPOT: An Adaptation of the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool for Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Patients

BACKGROUND

The Pediatric Critical-Care Observation Tool (P-CPOT) is an adaption of the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) originally designed to assess pain in nonverbal critically-ill adults.

AIM

The study validated the P-CPOT in assessing nociceptive procedure pain in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) children who are unable to verbalize pain.

METHODS

Content validity was tested using a two-round expert panel review with 8 experts. With a sample of 78 PICU patients, prospective repeated measures were designed to detect the change over time at pre- (T1), during (T2), and post- (T3) for routinely scheduled nociceptive procedures. Each measure was independently completed by two raters using two scales, the P-CPOT and the FLACC (Faces, Legs, Activity, Cry and Consolability).

RESULTS

All categories had Item-level content validity indices of 0.88 to 1.00. A one-factor structure containing 5 items was established and accounted for 85% variance in P-CPOT scores. Inter-rater reliability was substantial with correlation coefficient of 0.996 and Kappa value of 0.90. A threshold value of 4 resulted in excellent balance between sensitivity (98.6%) and specificity (97.6%). Both tools detected the score changes over time (p = .025). P-CPOT had a larger effect size (Cohen's d = 4.1) as well as a higher score than FLACC at T2 (p = .039). Linear regression revealed that patients being ventilated tended to have a P-CPOT score of 1.1 higher than the FLACC score while controlling for heart rates (p < .001), meaning that P-CPOT is more sensitive than FLACC for detecting pain increase during nociceptive procedures in ventilated patients.

CONCLUSION

The P-CPOT is a valid scale for assessing pain in PICU patients with very good psychometric performance. It is especially adept in detecting pain in ventilated patients.

Pain Screening in the Older Adult With Delirium

BACKGROUND

In patients with cognitive impairments who are unable to self-report pain, nurses must rely on behavioral observation tools to assess and manage pain. Although frequently employed in medical-surgical units, evidence supporting the psychometric efficacy of the Pain in Advanced Dementia (PAINAD) for pain screening in older adults with delirium is lacking.

AIM

To examine the psychometrics of the PAINAD for older adults with delirium in medical-surgical settings.

DESIGN

A descriptive repeated measures design.

SETTING

Medical-surgical units in an urban tertiary care hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixty-eight older adults with delirium.

METHODS

Patients with delirium unable to self-report pain were screened by two data collectors with the PAINAD and the Critical Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT). Patients with a PAINAD score ≥3 or a CPOT score ≥2 received a pain intervention. Pain assessments were repeated 30 minutes post baseline or pain intervention.

RESULTS

Patients were predominately female (58.8%) with dementia (71%). Thirty-nine patients screened positive for pain and received a pain intervention. PAINAD reliability was strong (Cronbach's α = 0.81-0.87; interrater intraclass coefficients [ICC] = 0.91-0.94; test-retest ICC = 0.76-0.77). Construct validity was supported by a statistically significant interaction effect between time (baseline versus follow-up) and condition (pain intervention versus no pain group; Rater 1: F(1,66) = 8.31, p = 0.005, η_p² = 0.11; Rater 2: F(1,66) = 8.22, p = 0.006, η_p² = 0.11.

CONCLUSIONS

The PAINAD is a reliable and valid tool for pain screening for older adults with delirium in medical-surgical settings.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Pain and delirium frequently co-occur in the older adult population. Best practices require a holistic assessment for contributing pain and non-pain factors in patients exhibiting distress.

Validating a pain assessment tool in heterogeneous ICU patients: Is it possible?

BACKGROUND

Non-communicative adult ICU patients are vulnerable to inadequate pain management with potentially severe consequences. In German-speaking countries, there is limited availability of a validated pain assessment tool for this population.

AIM

The aim of this observational study was to test the German version of the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) in a heterogeneous adult ICU population.

METHODS

The CPOT's feasibility for clinical use was evaluated via a questionnaire. For validity and reliability testing, the CPOT was compared with the Behavioural Pain Scale (BPS) and patient's self-report in 60 patients during 480 observations simultaneously performed by two raters.

RESULTS

The feasibility evaluation demonstrated high satisfaction with clinical usability (85% of responses 4 or 5 on a 5-point Likert scale). The CPOT revealed excellent criterion validity [agreement between CPOT and BPS 94.0%, correlation of CPOT and BPS sum scores r = 0.91 (P < .05), agreement of CPOT with patient self-report 81.4%], good discriminant validity [mean difference of CPOT scores between at rest and non-painful stimulus 0.33 (P < .029), mean difference of CPOT scores between at rest, and painful stimulus 2.19 (P < .001)], for a CPOT cut-off score of >2 a high sensitivity and specificity (93% and 84%), high positive predictive value (85%), and a high negative predictive value (93%). The CPOT showed acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach's α 0.79) and high inter-rater reliability [90% agreement, no differences in CPOT sum scores in 64.2% of observations, and correlation for CPOT sum scores r = 0.72 (P < .05)]. Self-report obtained in patients with delirium did not correlate with the CPOT rating in 62% of patients.

CONCLUSION

This is the first validation study of the CPOT evaluating all of the described validity dimensions, including feasibility, at once. The results are congruent with previous validations of the CPOT with homogeneous samples and show that it is possible to validate a tool with a heterogeneous sample. Further research should be done to improve pain assessment and treatment in ICU patients with delirium.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

The German CPOT version can be recommended for ICUs in German-speaking countries.

Impact of audit and feedback with action implementation toolbox on improving ICU pain management: cluster-randomised controlled trial

Background

Audit and feedback (A&F) enjoys widespread use, but often achieves only marginal improvements in care. Providing recipients of A&F with suggested actions to overcome barriers (action implementation toolbox) may increase effectiveness.

Objective

To assess the impact of adding an action implementation toolbox to an electronic A&F intervention targeting quality of pain management in intensive care units (ICUs).

Trial design

Two-armed cluster-randomised controlled trial. Randomisation was computer generated, with allocation concealment by a researcher, unaffiliated with the study. Investigators were not blinded to the group assignment of an ICU.

Participants

Twenty-one Dutch ICUs and patients eligible for pain measurement.

Interventions

Feedback-only versus feedback with action implementation toolbox.

Outcome

Proportion of patient-shift observations where pain management was adequate; composed by two process (measuring pain at least once per patient in each shift; re-measuring unacceptable pain scores within 1 hour) and two outcome indicators (acceptable pain scores; unacceptable pain scores normalised within 1 hour).

Results

21 ICUs (feedback-only n=11; feedback-with-toolbox n=10) with a total of 253 530 patient-shift observations were analysed. We found absolute improvement on adequate pain management in the feedback-with-toolbox group (14.8%; 95% CI 14.0% to 15.5%) and the feedback-only group (4.8%; 95% CI 4.2% to 5.5%). Improvement was limited to the two process indicators. The feedback-with-toolbox group achieved larger effects than the feedback-only group both on the composite adequate pain management (p<0.05) and on measuring pain each shift (p<0.001). No important adverse effects have occurred.

Conclusion

Feedback with toolbox improved the number of shifts where patients received adequate pain management compared with feedback alone, but only in process and not outcome indicators.

Trial registration number

NCT02922101.

Caregiver emotional distress: external open-behaviour signs

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether specific external signs of emotional distress (ESED) can be an indirect measure of emotional distress in caregivers.

METHODS

A cross-sectional multicentre design was used. 148 primary caregivers of advanced cancer patients attended in four Spanish palliative care units participated in this study. The emotional distress of caregivers was measured using both the Emotional Distress of Caregivers Scale and a psychological interview. Health professionals collected data using a standard clinical interview process after a brief training period.

RESULTS

More than half the caregivers (60%) presented with emotional distress. A positive correlation (r=0.566) was found between the intensity of ESED and emotional distress per se. Caregivers who presented emotional distress showed more ESED than those that did not (p<0.01). The study found significant differences for the categories 'visible signs of sadness, fear, crying, feeling overwhelmed' (p<0.001), 'difficulty in separating from the patient: family refuses to let the patient make decisions and insists on care' (p<0.001) and 'visible signs of anger, irritability or frequent disagreement with therapeutic measures' (p<0.001). No significant differences were found with respect to gender. The set of items to measure these external signs presented an adequate reliability assessed using Cronbach's alpha (α=0.773).

CONCLUSIONS

The assessment of ESED in caregivers could serve as a useful method to assess their emotional distress. Incorporating the systematic assessment of these external signs as part of the assessment of the emotional distress of primary caregivers could improve the overall assessment and treatment provided to these caregivers.

Study protocol: A randomized controlled trial assessing the avoidance of endotracheal suction in cardiac surgical patients ventilated for ≤ 12 hr

AIMS

To assess the safety and efficacy of avoiding endotracheal suction in postoperative cardiac surgical patients mechanically ventilated for ≤ 12 hr.

DESIGN

A prospective, single centre, single blind, non-inferiority, randomized controlled trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of avoiding suction in uncomplicated, postoperative, adult cardiac surgical patients mechanically ventilated for ≤ 12 hr.

METHODS

Randomization will be performed on return to intensive care (ICU) with allocation to either usual postoperative care including suction or to usual care with no suction (intervention arm). The primary outcome is the ratio of partial pressure of oxygen (PaO₂ ) to fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO₂ ) (P/F) 6 hr after extubation. Pain assessments will be performed before, during and after endotracheal suction (ETS) and the patient experience will be investigated with a brief interview the following day. Ethics approval was received in October 2015.

DISCUSSION

Endotracheal suction is performed as part of airway management but has potential complications and there is little robust evidence to guide practice. This study will add to the evidence base about the need and benefit of endotracheal suction in this patient cohort.

IMPACT

As there is currently no published evidence about the safety of avoiding endotracheal suction. This study will provide the first evidence about avoidance of endotracheal suction in patients ventilated for less than 1 day. If non-inferior, the results have the capacity to change nursing practice by avoiding a potentially unnecessary procedure, it will build on the body of knowledge about the patient experience.

Validation of a Chinese version critical-care pain observation tool in nonintubated and intubated critically ill patients: Two cross-sectional studies

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To validate the Chinese version of the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) in nonintubated and intubated ICU patients.

BACKGROUND

While CPOT was found to have the best psychometric properties among objective pain assessment scales, there is no Chinese version CPOT for nonintubated patients.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional design was used in these two observational studies.

METHODS

Seventy-six nonintubated patients and 53 intubated patients were assessed to examine internal consistency, criterion-related and discriminative validity of CPOT in the first study. Pain assessment during low pain condition as well as increased pain condition was performed by Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and the Chinese version COPT. Forty nonintubated patients and 43 intubated patients were assessed to examine inter-rater reliability in the second study. A bedside nurse and a researcher independently executed paired pain assessments with CPOT in the same conditions. The STROBE Statement was followed to guide these studies.

RESULTS

The Cronbach's α in nonintubated patients and intubated patients was 0.903-0.930 and 0.868-0.870. The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) in nonintubated patients ranged from 0.959-0.982, and the ICC in intubated patients ranged from 0.947-0.959, confirming the inter-rater reliability. The moderately positive Pearson's correlations between CPOT and NRS scores (r = 0.757-0.838 in nonintubated patients, r = 0.574-0.705 in intubated patients) indicated the criterion-related validity. A significant increase in CPOT scores in the increased pain condition compared with those acquired in the low pain condition verified the discriminative validity.

CONCLUSIONS

The Chinese version of CPOT was presented to be valid and reliable for both nonintubated and intubated critically ill adults, which could be applicable for pain assessment in patients in ICU.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

This study provides an applicable pain assessment tool for both nonintubated patients and intubated patients in ICU.

Family Members' Experiences with Observing Pain Behaviors Using the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines support family members' participation in care, but little is known regarding their potential contribution to pain assessment using validated behavioral pain scales.

AIMS

This study aimed to describe family members' observations of pain behaviors with the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool and their evaluation of the tool and its use, and to understand their experience and perceptions of their potential role in pain management in the intensive care unit.

DESIGN

A mixed methods cross-sectional explanatory design was used.

SETTING

A medical-surgical intensive care unit in Canada.

PARTICIPANTS/SUBJECTS

Family members were eligible if they had a loved one admitted in the intensive care unit who was unable to self-report.

METHODS

Family members identified pain behaviors using the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool after a brief training, completed a self-administered questionnaire, and participated in a follow-up individual interview regarding their experience and perceived potential role in pain management when their loved one is unable to self-report.

RESULTS

Ten family members participated. A 15-minute training appeared sufficient for family members to be comfortable with observing pain behaviors included in the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool. The tool allowed them to confirm their observations of pain behaviors, to focus more on the patient, and to advocate for better pain management.

CONCLUSIONS

Future research is needed to explore the views of more family members and to compare their Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool scores to the ones of nurses' for interrater reliability testing.

Nurses' perceptions of pain management adequacy in mechanically ventilated patients

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To examine how nurses' knowledge of behaviours indicating pain in mechanically ventilated patients and self-perceived collaboration between nurses and physicians affects the adequacy of departmental pain management.

BACKGROUND

Pain management is a vital factor of medical treatment in a hospital setting. Inadequate pain management requires attention both from a patient-focused perspective and from a departmental one. It would be particularly troubling in the case of inadequate pain management of mechanically ventilated patients.

DESIGN

The study utilised a cross-sectional design. The instruments developed were validated by a focus group of 25 pain management nurses, who reviewed the questionnaire for face validity, feasibility and comprehensibility, and who did not participate in the study. The questionnaire was revised, readjusted and formulated based on their responses and comments.

METHODS

A self-administered questionnaire administered in Israel with a convenience sample of 187 registered nurses (RN) from internal medicine and surgical departments and ICUs. Data were collected during February-May 2015. The "STROBE" EQUATOR checklist was used.

RESULTS

Nurses working in the ICU scored significantly higher on knowledge of behaviours indicating pain in mechanically ventilated patients and on self-perceived collaboration between nurses and physicians. Self-perceived collaboration between physicians and nurses was positively correlated with perceived departmental pain treatment adequacy. Self-perceived collaboration between nurses and physicians, knowledge of behaviours indicating pain in mechanically ventilated patients and seniority (with a borderline significance) explained 27% of the variance of perceived departmental pain management.

CONCLUSION

Nurses' knowledge of behaviours indicating pain in mechanically ventilated patients, as well as self-perceived collaboration between nurses and physicians, promotes reported adequate pain management.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Pain management would benefit from being conducted as a well-performed interprofessional self-perceived collaborative practice. Knowledgeable nurses tend to critically assess the level of departmental pain management.

Evaluation of Observational and Behavioural Pain Assessment Tools in Nonverbal Intubated Critically Adult Patients after Open - Heart Surgery: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Over 70% of patients hospitalised in an intensive care unit (ICU) often experience moderate to severe pain due to pre-existing diseases, trauma, surgery, aggressive procedures, and routine ICU care. Many patients hospitalised in ICU are not able to speak and express their pain due to various causes, including mechanical ventilation, reduced consciousness, and administration of sedative drugs. Therefore, the use of observational and behavioural pain tools is recommended in this group of patients given their inability to express pain.

AIM

To examine the existing observational and behavioural tools for assessment of in Nonverbal Intubated Critically Adult Patients after Open-Heart Surgery.

METHODS

A systematic review of available observational and behavioural tools for assessment of pain was undertaken using the COSMIN checklist. A literature search was conducted using the following databases: Ovid, Science Direct, Scopus, PubMed, and CINHAL databases, Google Scholar search engine as well as Persian resources Sid, Magiran, Iran doc, and IranMedex up to the end of 2017 were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 47 studies that had examined five tools used in intensive care units after cardiac surgery in patients under mechanical ventilation were reviewed. Each of the five tools included behavioural and observational items, and only one tool had physiological items. All the tools had been evaluated regarding validity and reliability. In the three tools, sensitivity, specificity, responsiveness, and satisfaction were considered.

CONCLUSION

Based on available evidence and investigations, CPOT and BPS tools have good validity and reliability to be used in pain assessment in Nonverbal Intubated Critically Adult Patients after Open-Heart Surgery. The NVPS tool requires more studies to be further confirmed before the assessment of pain in this group of patients.

Impact of Implementing the Critical Care Pain Observation Tool on Nurses' Performance in Assessing and Managing Pain in the Critically Ill Patients

Background and aims

Pain management is one of the most important responsibilities of nurses in an intensive care unit (ICU). It is difficult to perform pain assessment appropriately in patients who are unable to report their pain. This study is aimed to determine the impact of implementing the critical care pain observation tool (CPOT) on the amount and frequency of analgesics' administration in ICUs.

Materials and methods

This interventional study was conducted in 2014. Sixty nurses and 240 patients were studied. This study was carried out in three phases: first the data about amount and frequency of analgesic administration were extracted from patients' medical files. Then the CPOT was implemented into the nursing assessment process and finally, nurses' performance regarding the amount and frequency of analgesic administration was recorded. This data obtained before and after intervention were analyzed using chi-square and independent t-test p values less than 0.05 were considered significant.

Results

In this interventional study, we found that there was no difference in the demography and cause of ICU admission before and after implementation of CPOT (age p = 0.937, gender p = 0.996, and the cause of admission p = 0.996). We found that after implementing the CPOT into the nursing assessment process, the amount of analgesics administered (7.95 ± 8.77 mg vs. 11.01 ± 11.04 mg, p = 0.018) and the frequency of administration (2.91 ± 1.38 vs. 4.16 ± 0.99, p <0.001) increased significantly. Moreover, there was a significant increase in the frequency of pain assessment per patient per day in nursing practice after implementation of CPOT as compared to the practice before (7.2 ± 2.48 vs. 1.03 ± 1.63, p <0.001). The mean pain scores before and after the intervention (5.5 ± 1.08 vs.2.2 ± 0.48) were also significantly different.

Conclusion

Applying CPOT, as an objective mean of pain assessment, was effective in improving the performance of ICU nurses in assessment and management of patients' pain. It increased the amount and frequency of analgesic administration. We can recommend that COPT is a useful tool for assessment and management of pain in ICU patients and should be implemented in all ICUs.

How to cite this article

Modanloo M, Mohsenpour A, et al. Impact of Implementing the Critical Care Pain Observation Tool on Nurses' Performance in Assessing and Managing Pain in the Critically Ill Patients. Indian J Crit Care Med 2019;23(4):165-169.

Pain measurement techniques: spotlight on mechanically ventilated patients

Background

Procedural pain is a frequent problem in intensive care units (ICUs). For that, pain assessment has been increasingly introduced to the ICU professional’s routine, and studies have been developed to show the relevance of measuring pain in critically ill patients.

Objective

This review aimed to describe pain measurement techniques for mechanically ventilated adult patients based on evidence and already published.

Method

Systematic literature search was performed on PubMed and Google Scholar. Keywords “pain”, “pain measurement”, “intensive care units” and “respiration, artificial” were combined to the Boolean operator AND. No language or publication year was limited in this search. The purpose and method of all papers were analyzed and only studies which described pain assessment in mechanically ventilated patients were included in this review.

Results

Objective methods were found in the literature to assess pain in mechanically ventilated adults. Behavioral scales were the most used method for pain measurement in noncommunicative patients. Vital signs were used, but the reliability of this method was questioned. Pupillometry, bispectral index and skin conductance were found and described as pain assessment methods.

Conclusion

This review showed that objective measures, as behavioral scales, are the gold standard tools to measure pain intensity in noncommunicative subjects. These data contribute to professionals’ knowledge about ICU pain measurement and emphasize its importance and consequences for adequate pain management.

Implementation of the Critical Care Pain Observation Tool increases the frequency of pain assessment for noncommunicative ICU patients

BACKGROUND

Pain is a common stressor for ICU patients, necessitating routine assessment. For patients who are unable to communicate, self-report tools are unsuitable, and the use of an observational tool is required to assess pain appropriately. The Critical Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) is the most reliable tool currently available to assess pain in these patients. We investigated whether the implementation of the CPOT in one Australian ICU could increase frequency of appropriate pain assessments, and if this would affect the administration of analgesia and sedation.

METHODS

In this before and after study, we first performed a retrospective chart audit on 441 adult ICU patient charts, over 49 days. Data collected included frequency and type of pain assessments, sedation and analgesia administered, communication and CAM-ICU status, and bedside nurse-perceived pain. During the implementation phase, new policy and guideline documents were released, and ICU charts were redesigned to incorporate the CPOT. All nursing staff attended an education session on pain assessment and correct use of the CPOT. The chart audit was repeated, capturing 344 charts over 43 days.

RESULTS

Mean total assessments in 24 hours increased from 7.2 to 7.9 for communicative, 3.0 to 8.9 for non-communicative, and 5.1 to 9.1 for transitioning patients. For non-communicative patients there was a significant increase in observational assessments including the CPOT (1.7 to 8.3), and a decrease in inappropriate use of self-report tools (1.3 to 0.2). We also observed significant increases in administration of paracetamol, opiates, propofol, patient-controlled analgesia, modified-release opiates, and neuropathic pain agents.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of the CPOT using standardised education and resources led to increased frequency of pain assessment, particularly for non-communicative patients. Appropriate observational assessments were also more frequently used for these patients. Analgesic administration generally increased, as did the use of propofol.

Validation of Two Pain Assessment Tools Using a Standardized Nociceptive Stimulation in Critically Ill Adults

CONTEXT

The Behavioral Pain Scale (BPS) or the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) are recommended in practice guidelines for pain assessment in critically ill adults unable to self-report. However, their use in another language requires cultural adaptation and validation testing.

OBJECTIVES

Cross-cultural adaptation of the CPOT and BPS English versions into Brazilian Portuguese, and their validation by comparing behavioral scores during rest, standardized nociceptive stimulation by pressure algometry (SNSPA), and turning were completed. In addition, we explored clinical variables that could predict the CPOT and BPS scores.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted with 168 medical-surgical critically ill adults unable to self-report in the intensive care unit. Two nurses were trained to use the CPOT and BPS Brazilian Portuguese versions at the following assessments: 1) baseline at rest, 2) after SNSPA with a pressure of 14 kgf/cm², 3) during turning, and 4) 15 minutes after turning.

RESULTS

Inter-rater reliability of nurses' CPOT and BPS scores was supported by high weighted kappa >0.7. Discriminative validation was supported with higher CPOT and BPS scores during SNSPA or turning in comparison to baseline (P < 0.001). The Glasgow Coma Scale score was the only variable that predicted CPOT and BPS scores with explained variance of 44.5% and 55.2%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The use of the Brazilian CPOT and BPS versions showed good reliability and validity in critically ill adults unable to self-report. A standardized procedure, the SNSPA, was used for the first time in the validation process of these tools and helped us improve the validation process.

Validation of the Polish version of the Critical Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) to assess pain intensity in adult, intubated intensive care unit patients: the POL-CPOT study

INTRODUCTION

Pain in the critically ill affects nearly 50% of patients. In patients unable to self-report pain, behavioural scales are used. The aim of this study was to validate the Polish version of the Critical Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The prospective observational cohort study included patients observed during non-nociceptive and nociceptive procedures, at rest, during the intervention, and 15 min after each intervention. Assessments included self-report by patients and CPOT assessment carried out by two blinded observers.

RESULTS

A total of 71 patients were included in the study (mean age: 66 years), predominantly males (50/71, 70%), mean APACHE II score 26.04 ±10.56. Results showed an excellent inter-rater correlation (ICC) between raters (ICC scores > 0.97). Self-report NRS (numeric rating scale) scores were available from 58/71 patients (82%). Patients' self-reported pain and CPOT showed a very strong correlation (Spearman's R > 0.85, p < 0.0001). The CPOT has high diagnostic value for detection of presence of patients' self-reported pain (ROC AUC = 0.938 for rater A and 0.951 for rater B, p < 0.0001). CPOT score ≥ 2 is an optimal cut-off to detect pain during a nociceptive procedure. A significantly higher mean CPOT score during a nociceptive procedure as compared to a non-nociceptive procedure or at rest was found (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that the Polish version of the CPOT can be used to assess pain in critically ill patients with no hypnotic, opioid-based analgo-sedation. Polish CPOT scores correlated well with patients' self-reported presence of pain and showed excellent inter-rater reliability. This makes the Polish version of the CPOT a reliable pain assessment tool.

Use of the critical-care pain observation tool and the bispectral index for the detection of pain in brain-injured patients undergoing mechanical ventilation: A STROBE-compliant observational study

The assessment of pain in patients with brain injury is challenging due to impaired ability to communicate. We aimed to test the reliability and validity of the critical-care pain observation tool (CPOT) and the bispectral index (BIS) for pain detection in critically brain-injured patients.This prospective observational study was conducted in a neurosurgical intensive care unit in a University-Affiliated Hospital. Adult brain-injured patients undergoing mechanical ventilation were enrolled. Nociceptive (endotracheal suctioning) and non-nociceptive (gentle touching) procedures were performed in a random crossover fashion. Before and immediately after the procedure, CPOT was evaluated by 2 residents and 2 chief nurses, and BIS was documented. The ability to self-report pain was also assessed. The inter-observer reliability of CPOT was analyzed. The criterion and discriminant validities of the CPOT and the BIS were tested.During the study, we enrolled 400 brain-injured patients. The ability to self-report pain was maintained in 214 (54%) and 218 (55%) patients during suctioning and gentle touching, respectively. The intraclass correlation coefficients (95% confidence interval) for inter-observer reliability of CPOT ranged from 0.86 (0.83-0.89) to 0.93 (0.91-0.94). Using self-reported pain as the reference, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (95% confidence interval) was 0.84 (0.80-0.88) for CPOT and 0.76 (0.72-0.81) for BIS. When the 2 instruments were combined as either CPOT ≥2 or BIS ≥88 after the procedure, the sensitivity and specificity were 0.90 (0.85-0.93) and 0.59 (0.52-0.66), respectively; and when the 2 instruments were combined as both CPOT ≥2 and BIS ≥88, the sensitivity and specificity were 0.62 (0.55-0.68) and 0.89 (0.83-0.93). Both CPOT and BIS increased significantly after suctioning (all P < .001) but remained unchanged after gentle touching (P ranging from .06 to .14).Our criterion and discriminant validity results supported the use of CPOT and BIS to detect pain in critically brain-injured patients. Combining use of CPOT and BIS in different ways might provide comprehensive pain assessment for different purposes.

[Process for implementing a pain assessment scale for patients with brain injuries: description of a project methodology based on the Integrated Model of Consultation]

Background : in a neurosurgery unit, nurses selected the Critical Pain Observation Tool (CPOT) based on evidence to assess pain in brain-injured patients. However, months after implementation, nursing managers have observed an underutilization.Objectives : support a care team to overcome the pitfalls encountered during the implementation of the CPOT scale for brain-injured patients in neurosurgery unit.Methods : the Lescarbeau, Payette and St-Arnaud's Integrated Model of Consultation was selected. In addition to a scientific literature review, self-administered questionnaire and three interview guides were developed to gather the views of caregivers.Results : the process allowed to identify pitfalls at level of interprofessional collaboration CPOT scale and implementation processes. Improving interprofessional collaboration and adaptation of CPOT scale for brain-injured patients were withholding action priorities.Discussion : a rigorous methodology, the mutual recognition of clinical skills and the development of relationship of trust are prerequisites for the success of clinical innovation.Conclusion : the Integrated Intervention Model is a methodology of choice allowing to take into consideration both evidence and preferences of all actors at every step of the process led to informed choices and priorities setting for a successful implementation.

An Association Between Pain and American Association of Respiratory Care 2010 Guidelines During Tracheal Suctioning

INTRODUCTION

Tracheal suctioning is recalled by mechanically ventilated patients as the most painful procedure during their stay in the intensive care unit.

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the implementation of American Association of Respiratory Care suction guidelines positively affects the levels of patients' pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a prospective observational study on adult patients admitted to 2 general intensive care units. Pain levels in sedated mechanically ventilated patients were recorded before, during, and after tracheal suctioning, using the Critical Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT).

RESULTS

Forty-seven patients were enrolled, with a mean age of 61.72 (±18.46) years. Median CPOT value was 0 (quartile 1 [Q1] [25%], 0; quartile 3 [Q3] [75%], 0; min, 0; max, 2) during the procedure. The Critical Care Pain Observation Tool reached a median value of 3, while 5 minutes after suctioning. Postprocedural CPOT median score was 0 (Q1 [25%], 0; Q3 [75%], 0; min, 0; max, 2). The median number of passes during suctioning was 1 (Q1, 1; Q3, 2). The sizes of suction catheters used in the recorded procedures were as follows: 12F in 27 cases (57%), 14F in 18 cases (38%), and 10F in 2 cases (5%). The median size of the endotracheal tube was 7.5 mm (Q1, 7.5; Q3, 8). The correct ratio between endotracheal tube diameter and suction catheter was used in 24 procedures (51%).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the low number of patients, this study showed that the implementation of the American Association of Respiratory Care 2010 endotracheal suctioning guidelines into practice helps to reduce procedural-induced pain. Therefore, training and continuing education are important for clinical staff performing tracheal suctioning.

Validation of the Italian version of the Critical Pain Observation Tool in brain-injured critically ill adults

Background and aim: Pain in intensive care units (ICUs) is a frequent and often undermanaged problem. Brain-injured patients are often unable to reliably self-report their pain, calling forth the need to use behavioural scales such as the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool (CPOT). This study aimed to test the reliability and validity of the Italian CPOT use with brain-injured ICU adults. Method: A sample of 50 adults critical care patients was included. Each patient was assessed by two independent observers at three predefined times – at rest; during mobilization for hygiene; 20 minutes later – using the CPOT, PAINAD, and NRS. Results: A good correlation was found between independent observers scores during painful procedure, establishing interrater reliability of CPOT. Criterion validation was supported by a strong correlation between CPOT and PAINAD scores, and a moderate relation between CPOT and NRS scores. The CPOT was able to discriminate between patients undergoing painful versus non-painful procedures. However, PAINAD performed better in this sample, as revealed by the comparison between the two AUC of ROC curves. Conclusions: The Italian CPOT use was found reliable and valid in this patient group.

Age related inverse dose relation of sedatives and analgesics in the intensive care unit

Sedative and analgesic practices in intensive care units (ICUs) are frequently based on anesthesia regimes but do not take account of the important patient related factors. Pharmacologic properties of sedatives and analgesics change when used as continuous infusions in ICU compared to bolus or short-term infusions during anesthesia. In a prospective observational cohort study, we investigated the association between patient related factors and sedatives/analgesics doses in patients on mechanical ventilation (MV) and their association with cessation of sedation/analgesia. We included patients expected to receive MV for at least 24 hours and excluded those with difficulty in assessing the depth of sedation. We collected data for the first 72 hours or until extubation, whichever occurred first. Multivariate analysis of variance, multivariate regression as well as logistic regression were used. The final cohort (N = 576) was predominantly male (64%) with mean (SD) age 61.7 (15.6) years, weight 63.4 (18.2) Kg, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score 28.2 (8) and 30% hospital mortality. Increasing age was associated with reduced propofol and fentanyl doses requirements, adjusted to the weight (p<0.001). Factors associated with higher propofol and fentanyl doses were vasopressor use (Relative mean difference (RMD) propofol 1.56 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.28–1.90); fentanyl 1.48 (1.25–1.76) and central venous line placement (CVL, RMD propofol 1.64 (1.15–2.33); fentanyl 1.41 (1.03–1.91). Male gender was also associated with higher propofol dose (RMD 1.27 (1.06–1.49). Sedation cessation was less likely to occur in restrained patients (Odds Ratio, OR 0.48 (CI 0.30–0.78) or those receiving higher sedative/analgesic doses (OR propofol 0.98 (CI 0.97–0.99); fentanyl 0.99 (CI 0.98–0.997), independent of depth of sedation. In conclusion, increasing age is associated with the use of lower doses of sedative/analgesic in ICU, whereas CVL and vasopressor use were associated with higher doses.

Pain Assessment in Noncommunicative Adult Palliative Care Patients

Palliative care patients who have pain are often unable to self-report their pain, placing them at increased risk for underrecognized and undertreated pain. Use of appropriate pain assessment tools significantly enhances the likelihood of effective pain management and improved pain-related outcomes. This paper reviews selected tools and provides palliative care clinicians with a practical approach to selecting a pain assessment tool for noncommunicative adult patients.

The Behavior Pain Assessment Tool for critically ill adults: a validation study in 28 countries

Many critically ill adults are unable to communicate their pain through self-report. The study purpose was to validate the use of the 8-item Behavior Pain Assessment Tool (BPAT) in patients hospitalized in 192 intensive care units from 28 countries. A total of 4812 procedures in 3851 patients were included in data analysis. Patients were assessed with the BPAT before and during procedures by 2 different raters (mostly nurses and physicians). Those who were able to self-report were asked to rate their pain intensity and pain distress on 0 to 10 numeric rating scales. Interrater reliability of behavioral observations was supported by moderate (0.43-0.60) to excellent (>0.60) kappa coefficients. Mixed effects multilevel logistic regression models showed that most behaviors were more likely to be present during the procedure than before and in less sedated patients, demonstrating discriminant validation of the tool use. Regarding criterion validation, moderate positive correlations were found during procedures between the mean BPAT scores and the mean pain intensity (r = 0.54) and pain distress (r = 0.49) scores (P < 0.001). Regression models showed that all behaviors were significant predictors of pain intensity and pain distress, accounting for 35% and 29% of their total variance, respectively. A BPAT cut-point score >3.5 could classify patients with or without severe levels (≥8) of pain intensity and distress with sensitivity and specificity findings ranging from 61.8% to 75.1%. The BPAT was found to be reliable and valid. Its feasibility for use in practice and the effect of its clinical implementation on patient pain and intensive care unit outcomes need further research.

Video education for critical care nurses to assess pain with a behavioural pain assessment tool: A descriptive comparative study

AIM

To evaluate the impact of video education on critical care nurses' knowledge and skills in using a behavioural pain assessment tool for intensive care patients and to explore the nurses' experiences with video education.

METHODS

Forty-eight nurses in one intensive care unit watched an educational video on the use of the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool, then assessed pain in two patients with the tool and took a knowledge test. The researcher made parallel pain assessments. Interrater reliability of patients' pain assessment between nurses and the researcher was determined to examine nurses' skills in using the tool after education. Twenty nurses were interviewed about their experiences with the video education. Interviews were analysed with deductive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The knowledge test scores indicated that the nurses learned the principles of how to use the tool. The interrater reliability of pain assessments reached a moderate level of agreement during the painful procedure, with a weighted kappa coefficient value of 0.48, CL [0.37, 0.58]. The nurses perceived video education positively, but requested additional interaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Video education is useful in teaching the principles of using a pain assessment tool. Additional clinical training is required for nurses to reach adequate skills in using the tool.

[Validation of the Brazilian version of Behavioral Pain Scale in adult sedated and mechanically ventilated patients]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The Behavioral Pain Scale is a pain assessment tool for uncommunicative and sedated Intensive Care Unit patients. The lack of a Brazilian scale for pain assessment in adults mechanically ventilated justifies the relevance of this study that aimed to validate the Brazilian version of Behavioral Pain Scale as well as to correlate its scores with the records of physiological parameters, sedation level and severity of disease.

METHODS

Twenty-five Intensive Care Unit adult patients were included in this study. The Brazilian Behavioral Pain Scale version (previously translated and culturally adapted) and the recording of physiological parameters were performed by two investigators simultaneously during rest, during eye cleaning (non-painful stimulus) and during endotracheal suctioning (painful stimulus).

RESULTS

High values of responsiveness coefficient (coefficient=3.22) were observed. The Cronbach's alpha of total Behavioral Pain Scale score at eye cleaning and endotracheal suctioning was 0.8. The intraclass correlation coefficient of total Behavioral Pain Scale score was ≥ 0.8 at eye cleaning and endotracheal suctioning. There was a significant highest Behavioral Pain Scale score during application of painful procedure when compared with rest period (p≤0.0001). However, no correlations were observed between pain and hemodynamic parameters, sedation level, and severity of disease.

CONCLUSIONS

This pioneer validation study of Brazilian Behavioral Pain Scale exhibits satisfactory index of internal consistency, interrater reliability, responsiveness and validity. Therefore, the Brazilian Behavioral Pain Scale version was considered a valid instrument for being used in adult sedated and mechanically ventilated patients in Brazil.

A systematic review of observational pain assessment instruments for use with nonverbal intubated critically ill adult patients in the emergency department: an assessment of their suitability and psychometric properties

AIM AND OBJECTIVE

To examine the psychometric properties and suitability of the available observational pain instruments for potential use with nonverbal critically ill adult patients in the emergency department.

BACKGROUND

In the emergency department, assessing pain in critically ill patients is challenging, especially those unable to communicate the presence of pain. Critically ill patients are commonly unable to verbally communicate pain due to altered oral communication (e.g. endotracheal intubation) and/or diminished consciousness (e.g. sedation, delirium), placing them at great risk of inadequate pain management. Over half of intensive care critically ill intubated patients experience moderate-to-severe pain whilst intubated and mechanically ventilated.

DESIGN

Systematic review.

DATA SOURCES

The CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, ProQuest databases, and the Cochrane Library and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence were also searched from their date of inception to April 2016, with no language restrictions applied.

REVIEW METHOD

Studies were identified using predetermined inclusion criteria. Data were extracted and summarised and underwent evaluation using published classification of psychometric tests for consistency of interpretation.

RESULTS

Twenty-six studies evaluating five observational pain assessment instruments that had been used with critically ill intubated patients were identified. All five instruments included behavioural indicators, with two including physiologic indicators. All five instruments have undergone validity and reliability testing involving nonverbal critically ill intubated patients, three were examined for feasibility, and one instrument underwent sensitivity and specificity testing. None have been tested within the emergency department with nonverbal critically ill intubated adult patients.

CONCLUSION

The use of an appropriate and valid observational pain assessment instrument is fundamental to detecting and optimising pain management in nonverbal critically ill intubated patients in the emergency department. Of the observational pain assessment instruments reviewed, the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool was identified as most appropriate for testing in a prospective trial in an emergency department setting.

Risk factors and prognosis of pain events during mechanical ventilation: a retrospective study

Background

Pain assessment is highly recommended in patients receiving mechanical ventilation. However, pain intensity and its impact on outcomes in these patients remain obscure. We collected the results of routine pain assessments, utilizing the behavioral pain scale (BPS), from 151 patients receiving mechanical ventilation. Risk factors associated with a pain event, defined as BPS of >5, and its impact on patient outcomes were investigated.

Methods

A total of 151 consecutive adult patients receiving mechanical ventilation for more than 24 h in a single 10-bed ICU were enrolled in this study. The highest BPS within 48 h after the initiation of mechanical ventilation was collected, as well as information about the patients’ characteristics and medication received. We also recorded patient outcomes, including time to successful weaning from mechanical ventilation, time to successful ICU discharge, and 30-day in-hospital mortality. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors independently associated with patients with a BPS of >5. Clinical outcomes were also assessed using multivariate logistic regression analysis, correcting for risk factors.

Results

We analyzed 151 patients. The median highest BPS was 4. The percentage of patients who recorded a BPS of >5 was 19.9% (n = 30). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the disuse of fentanyl and inotropic support was an independent predictor of pain event. Multivariable Cox regression analysis suggested that the development of a BPS of >5 was associated with increased mortality and a not statistically significant trend towards prolonged mechanical ventilation.

Conclusions

A significant proportion of ventilated patients experienced a BPS of >5 soon after the initiation of mechanical ventilation. Disuse of fentanyl and use of inotropic agents increased the risk of developing a BPS of >5 during mechanical ventilation. An association between adequate analgesia and improved patient outcomes provides a rationale for the assessment of pain during mechanical ventilation, with subsequent intervention if necessary.

Pain events were common among ventilated patients. In critical care settings, appropriate and adequate pain management is warranted, given the association with improved patient outcomes.