Der Schmerz
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Patients with chronic non-cancer pain not only show reduced quality of life, but also chronic morbidity and increased mortality. However, little is known about prevalence and type of abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings in these individuals. ⋯ The prevalence of abnormal ECG recordings should be considered in the pain management of these patients. General ECG screening in this population should be discussed. Future studies should examine a larger population to identify potential risk factors (e.g., medication).
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[Pain assessment in elderly nursing home residents: methods paper for the S3-guideline development].
In Germany, there is currently no guideline for pain assessment in elderly people. Pain management in nursing home residents is, however, legally required. ⋯ Delegates of the 38 scientific societies and interest groups currently participating can contribute to the contents on three different levels. The present article outlines the methods for developing the guideline.
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Systems for and methods of quality management are increasingly being implemented in public health services. The aim of our study was to analyze the current state of the integrated quality management concept "quality management acute pain therapy" of the TÜV Rheinland® (TÜV) after a 5-year project period. ⋯ Certification by the TÜV leads to sustainable implementation of quality management principles. Future efforts should focus on better integration of physicians in acute pain therapy and the development of an integrated tool to measure patients' outcome.
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Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS; formerly known as Morbus Sudeck/reflex dystrophy) is diagnosed in children and adolescents, but the clinical presentation is often atypical. Unfortunately, potentially harmful, invasive treatments are used in pediatric patients. ⋯ Despite a lack of evidence for invasive procedures, these continue to be used in children and adolescents with CRPS, who later respond positively to conventional treatment. The English full-text version of this article is available at SpringerLink (under "Supplemental").
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The aim of this study was to conduct an audit of a university inpatient pain consultation service and to examine the quality and the implementation of the recommended therapeutic measures. Factors that influenced the implementation should be identified. ⋯ Many different pain states are seen in an inpatient pain consultation service. The recommendations given are implemented in most cases especially concerning the medication.