Research data obtained during care planning projects result in increased capacity to assess pain in cognitively impaired older persons

A care planning guidance tool (CPGT) was developed as part of a local Palliative Care Planning Project. The Guidelines to a Palliative Approach in Residential Aged Care was utilized to provide the underpinning knowledge framework.

Prior to piloting implementation, two preliminary steps needed to be undertaken: (i) a pre-implementation documentation audit across the three participating facilities, and (ii) education to all staff about the CPGT and its use.