PDST: Pain Decision Support Tool

Abstract Objective: Develop a decision support tool that guides the health care professional in the pain medication process. Background: An increased focus on the need for adequate pain management and the development of national standards was the impetus behind the development of a computerized pain management tool. Design: A rule-based program was used to develop PDST, based on the problem analysis for pain. PDST steps the nurse through the pain medication process and will suggest an appropriate type of pain medication or intervention. Conclusion: This pilot study demonstrates that a decision support program could be adapted to finding a solution to a pain management problem.