Documentation of patient with pain not brought to a comfortable level within 48 hours from initial assessment
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Documentation of patient with pain not brought to a comfortable level within 48 hours from initial assessment
Summary
This procedure involves the systematic documentation of a patient's pain that has not been relieved to a comfortable level within 48 hours of initial assessment. The report captures detailed information on the pain's persistence and the interventions tried.
Purpose
This documentation is crucial for ongoing patient care.
- Medical conditions: Chronic pain management, diagnosis of pain persistence issues.
- Goals: Accurately record the patient's pain status to adjust treatment plans, ensure thorough patient monitoring, and facilitate appropriate referrals.
Indications
This procedure is indicated for patients who:
- Continue to experience significant discomfort or pain despite initial pain management efforts within the first 48 hours.
- Require further diagnostic evaluation to understand and manage persistent pain.
Preparation
- Pre-procedure: Ensure comprehensive pain assessment has been conducted within the past 48 hours, including pain intensity and type assessment.
- Diagnostic tests: Review prior pain management interventions, patient history, and any relevant diagnostic tests.
Procedure Description
- Initial Review: Collect initial pain assessment data, including pain scale scores and descriptions.
- Documentation: Record persistence of pain, noting any changes or escalation in intensity.
- Interventions: List all interventions tried, including medications, therapies, and their outcomes.
- Patient Feedback: Include patient’s descriptions of their pain experience and any subjective feedback on past treatments.
Clinical Notes: Summarize any new findings or observations by healthcare providers.
- Tools: Standardized pain assessment tools and patient records.
- Technology: Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems for documentation.
- Anesthesia/sedation: Not applicable.
Duration
Approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the patient's situation and documentation requirements.
Setting
Performed in any clinical setting, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, or primary care offices.
Personnel
Involves:
- Primary care physician or specialist: Oversees the process.
- Nurse or physician assistant: May assist with data collection and patient interaction.
Risks and Complications
- Common risks: Minimal, related to inaccurate documentation if patient data is misinterpreted.
- Complications: Potential delay in appropriate follow-up care if documentation is incomplete or erroneous.
Benefits
- Expected benefits:
- Ensures comprehensive tracking of pain management efficacy.
- Facilitates tailored treatment adjustments for better pain management.
- Realization time: Immediate in terms of providing healthcare providers with critical information.
Recovery
Not applicable as this is a documentation process. However, it assists in refining ongoing treatment.
- Post-procedure care: Ensure continuous monitoring and follow-up appointments.
- Recovery time: Depends on subsequent interventions and their effectiveness.
Alternatives
- Other options: Direct adjustments to pain management plans without formal documentation, patient self-reporting through diaries or apps.
- Pros and cons: Alternative methods may lack comprehensive clinical oversight but can provide quicker adjustments.
Patient Experience
- During the procedure: Minimal discomfort, likely involving a detailed interview regarding pain.
- After the procedure: Better-informed pain management strategies aimed at providing relief. Pain management and comfort measures are continuously evaluated and adjusted based on documented findings.