216 R.I. Code R. 216-RICR-20-15-2.3

Current through December 26, 2024
Section 216-RICR-20-15-2.3 - General Requirements: Pain Assessment
A. Health care facilities and health care providers, as defined in this Part, shall conduct an assessment of pain experienced by a patient on a regular basis, according to a written protocol established by the health care facility or health care provider, respectively.
B. Pain shall be assessed in all inpatients upon admission, using a combination of patient's self-report, a health care provider's assessment, and/or a pain intensity tool. Pain assessment shall provide for an evaluation of, and/or further testing to collect additional information to determine any underlying causes or reasons for, the identified presence and severity of pain. As appropriate, assessments shall utilize a pain intensity tool and address the location, duration, onset, and characteristics of pain, the patient's goals, and alleviation of causative factors. Physical examination shall be conducted as indicated.
C. Pain shall be assessed in all outpatients upon intake or initial evaluation using a combination of patient's self-report, a health care provider's assessment, and/or a pain intensity tool. Pain assessment shall provide for an evaluation of, and/or further testing to collect additional information to determine any underlying causes or reasons for, the identified presence and severity of pain. As appropriate, assessments shall utilize a pain intensity tool and address the location, duration, onset, and characteristics of pain, the patient's goals, and alleviation of causative factors. Physical examination shall be conducted as indicated.
D. Outpatients presenting for diagnostic tests only (e.g., laboratory studies, radiological examinations) shall be exempted from the pain assessment requirements of this Part.
E. On a regular basis, all patients shall be re-assessed for pain according to a written protocol established by the health care facility or health care provider.
F. All pain assessments and re-assessments shall be documented in the patient's clinical record.
G. More than one pain intensity tool may be used by the health care facility or health care provider. Provided, however, the same pain intensity tool shall be utilized consistently in assessing the same patient and provided the tool is, and continues to be, appropriate for the patient.
H. At least annually, health care facilities shall ensure competency in pain assessment among appropriate clinicians as designated by the health care facility.

216 R.I. Code R. 216-RICR-20-15-2.3