Inpatient Orders: Adult & Children Pain Panels

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.

Beginning September 9, 2019:

To ensure compliance with TJC related to patient preference for pain medication, two pain panels have been created: Adult and Pediatric. Providers should select the pain levels and medications that are needed for the patient. When the pain panel is used, administration instructions will be generated on the MAR, allowing the nurse to administer the less potent medication option for higher level of pain per patient request. Nursing will note in the MAR comment box that the medication was given per patient request.

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.

See our latest Epic Tip Sheet on this topic for more details!