Authors

  1. Lane, Patricia BSN, RNC
  2. Kuntupis, Marilyn RNC, MDS
  3. MacDonald, Sally RN
  4. McCarthy, Patricia RNC
  5. Panke, Jo Ann BSN, RNC, RD
  6. Warden, Victoria RN
  7. Volicer, Ladislav MD, PhD

Abstract

Appropriate pain management can only be achieved through accurate pain assessment that is individualized, ongoing, and well documented. Assessment tools must focus on the patient as the authority on pain's existence and severity; however, self-reports are not feasible when patients lose their ability to verbally communicate. This article describes a scientifically proven pain assessment tool that can be used for patients with advanced dementia and Alzheimer's Disease.