The Pain-free Hospital Model

The Pain-free Hospital model has been adopted by major hospitals around the world. Malaysia’s Ministry of Health has established a Pain-free Hospital programme, while hospitals in Singapore and the United States have also incorporated pain management into patient care. These approaches highlight the importance of making pain assessment and management an integral part of routine clinical care.

This model helps ensure that

patients’ pain is identified and assessed promptly

appropriate pain management methods are selected

medication-related risks are minimised

patients are monitored throughout their treatment

At FV, we are also adopting this approach as we work towards becoming a Pain-free Hospital, through the following initiatives:

Pain assessment for every patient

FV assesses pain in 100% of patients attending the hospital. Pain scores are recorded alongside routine vital sign monitoring, with pain recognised as the fifth vital sign. Assessment scales are selected according to each patient group. For patients with Alzheimer’s disease who have difficulty communicating, healthcare professionals may assess pain through facial expressions and behavioural cues.

Specialty-specific pain management protocols

The Pain Committee brings together experts from different disciplines to develop hospital-wide pain management policies and protocols tailored to individual specialties, while promoting multidisciplinary collaboration in pain management.

Safer use of pain medication

FV maintains a range of pain medications to meet treatment needs and has a prescription review process managed by clinical pharmacists. Using prescription-checking software, pharmacists review all medications prescribed to patients, checking for potential duplication and drug interactions to minimise risks to patients’ health.

Regular training in pain management

FV organises annual continuing medical education (CME) programmes for its in-house doctors and nurses, as well as doctors and healthcare professionals from other hospitals.

Ongoing monitoring

A dedicated Pain Nurse monitors compliance with pain management protocols across the hospital’s departments.

Listening to patient feedback to drive improvement

FV surveys patients’ satisfaction with pain management at the hospital. Every six months, the Pain Council reviews training programmes and pain management protocols to improve the quality of care and enhance patient satisfaction.