Pain prevalence and intensity in hospitalized patients dependent on home mechanical ventilation

Aim: Persons dependent on home mechanical ventilation (HMV) may experience pain due to underlying conditions, yet this is not well described. This study aimed to describe pain prevalence and intensity among hospitalized patients using HMV. Design: Exploratory cross-sectional study. Methods: Pain prevalence and intensity were assessed among 40 hospitalized patients using HMV. Pain location, pain-related interference, and associations with depression, anxiety, and functional capacity were explored. Results: Pain prevalence was 55% (n=22). Among those reporting pain, mean pain intensity during the previous 24 hours was 3.76. Common pain sites included the lower back, shoulders and upper limbs, and lower limbs. Pain mainly interfered with general activity, sleep, and ability to work. No consistent statistically significant associations were found between pain and depression, anxiety, or functional capacity. Conclusion: Pain was frequent and affected daily functioning supporting the need for further research into pain assessment and individualized pain management.