TY - JOUR TI - Implementation of the CPOT pain scale in mechanically ventilated patients unable to self-report in the intensive care unit: a quality improvement project DO - https://doi.org/doi:10.7282/t3-z9fg-yj62 PY - 2019 AB - Purpose: Critically ill, mechanically ventilated (MV) patients are often not able to self-report pain. Currently, there are no universally accepted assessment tools for this population. The primary aim of this project is to compare the CPOT and FLACC in their ability to identify significant pain episodes (SPEs) in MV patients unable to self-report in the ICU Methodology: QI pilot project in a community hospital mixed-ICU. Convenience sample (N = 41) of bedside ICU RNs. Purposeful sample of adult MV patients, unable to self-report pain, with intact motor function (N = 34). After targeted educational sessions on behavioral pain scales, FLACC and CPOT implemented simultaneously. Significant episode cutoff: FLACC > 5, CPOT > 2. Afterwards, a self-administered, anonymous Likert scale RN survey to assess perceived feasibility, clinical relevance, and satisfaction of CPOT. Results: 1,096 behavioral pain assessments collected, 548 each. FLACC 19 SPEs, CPOT 74 SPEs. Statistically significant association between behavioral pain scale use and outcome of pain episodes, x2 (1) = 35.543, p < 0.0000000025. 68% survey response rate, majority regard CPOT as feasible (93%) and relevant (96%). Many were satisfied with its use and recommended it vs. FLACC (96%). Implications for Practice: The CPOT is an acceptable behavioral pain assessment scale in MV adult patients and is more appropriate than the FLACC. The use of a proper pain assessment scale is important in order to properly manage a patient's pain. This QI pilot project contributes to the process of translating the use of the CPOT in the ICU setting. KW - Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner KW - CPOT KW - Pain -- Reporting LA - English ER -