Patient Preference for Pain Medication

The Joint Commission (TJC) has recently clarified circumstances when a provider may write PRN medication orders that allow variation in administration for pain medication of lesser potency, even though the patient's pain scale score calls for a higher-level medication. The medical record must accurately reflect that lesser potent medication was administered based on the patient preference. It is never acceptable to administer a medication of stronger potency based on patient preference.

To ensure compliance with TJC related to patient preference for pain medication, two pain panels have been created: Adult and Pediatric. On the MAR when the pain panel is used, a nurse will see administration instructions that the medication may be administered for higher level of pain per patient request. Nursing should note in the comment box of the MAR that the medication was given per patient request.

This will go live on September 9, 2019.