Factors That Influence the Pain Response of Patients Admitted to an Emergency Department for Acute Musculoskeletal Trauma

Objective: To monitor factors influencing pain intensity variations in patients admitted to an emergency department (ED). Method: A prospective observational study included 904 patients. Pain intensity was assessed at ED admission and discharge using a novel Visual Analog Scale interpretation. Patient data included trauma type, pain location, the injury environment, age, race, and the time elapse between assessments. Results: Distinct personal, temporal and contextual factors revealed characteristic pain improvement, and worsening patterns post-ED management. Conclusions: The ED's pivotal role in pain relief, influenced by various factors, underscores the importance of optimizing patient care.