Pain Patients Bill of rights

[Guest guest]

For all of you who have never seen this I am posting the pain

patients bill of rights. Its hard enough fighting pain without

fighting dr's, nurses, hospitals and insurance companies too find

ways too help us feel better.

Pain Patient's Bill of Rights

You have a right to:

-Have your pain prevented or controlled adequately

-Have your pain and pain medication history taken

-Ask how much pain to expect and how long it might last

-Have your pain questions answered freely

-Develop a pain plan with your doctor

-Know what medication, treatment, or anesthesia will be given

-Know the risks, benefits, and side effects of treatment

-Know what alternative pain treatments may be available

-Sign a statement of informed consent before any treatment

-Be believed when you say you have pain

-Have your pain assessed on an individual basis

-Have your pain assessed using the 0=no pain/10=worst pain scale

-Ask for changes in treatments if your pain persists

-Compassionate and sympathetic care

-Receive pain medication on a timely basis

-Refuse treatment without prejudice from your doctor

-Seek a second opinion or request a pain care specialist

-Your records upon request

-Include family in decision making

Remind those who care for you that pain management is part of your

diagnostic, medical, or surgical care.

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