title: The use of algorithms in assessing and managing persistent pain in older adults.
abstract: As the U.S. population ages, nurses will care for increasing numbers of older adults, most of whom suffer from at least one chronic illness. The persistent pain associated with many chronic illnesses can have detrimental effects on patients' functioning and quality of life. Algorithms developed from evidence-based clinical practice guidelines are tools that can facilitate the application of research to practice. This article introduces readers to the use of algorithms in guiding the assessment and management of persistent pain in older adults, and provides an illustrative case study.
authors.affiliation: Seattle University College of Nursing, WA, USA. jablonsk@seattleu.edu
authors.forename: Anita M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Jablonski
authors.forename: Anna R
authors.initials: AR
authors.lastname: DuPen
authors.forename: Mary
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ersek
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000465:Algorithms; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000451:nursing*; D016903:Drug Monitoring; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010147:Pain Measurement / Q000379:methods*; D018579:Patient Selection
chemical_list: D000701:Analgesics, Opioid