Module 7: Pain Assessment in Patients with IDD

Introduction to the Module

Management of pain is critical to improving outcomes for hospitalized patients. The recognition of pain for hospitalized patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities has historically been challenging for providers. In this module, you will explore strategies for the identification and assessment of pain presenting in hospitalized patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities. You will learn how to transform assessment data into strategies for effective pain management for your patient. 

Introduction of the Subject Matter Expert: 

Dr. Amy Jerum, DNP, RN, FNP, CPNP-PC, PMHS-BC

Dr. Amy Jerum is the pediatric specialist for the Golisano Institute of Developmental Disability Nursing and a visiting assistant professor of nursing at the Wegmans School of Nursing at St. John Fisher University. Dr. Jerum served as the director of workforce development for the University of Rochester Medical Center, Division of Transitional Care Medicine and Complex Care Center that serves the needs of children and adolescents with IDD and families. She is a PNP at Monroe Community Hospital Pediatric Unit and the UR Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry/Project TEACH.

What you will learn:   

1. Understand what is needed to overcome the challenges of assessing pain in a patient with IDD
2. List components of a pain assessment for patients with IDD
3. Identify symptoms that may indicate that a patient with IDD is experiencing pain
4. Adopt pain management strategies for the hospitalized patient with IDD