Abdominal pain is a key finding in patients with abdominal problems, specifically peritonitis [1]. Correct assessment of abdominal pain is difficult, particularly in intubated and unconscious patients [1]. Central analgesia (e.g. epidural analgesia) may mask this symptom [2]. The location of the pain may narrow the differential diagnosis [1, 3]. Active guarding against release of palpation may indicate an acute abdomen [4].
Feasibility/Equipment: Abdominal pain can be assessed bed-side with patients who are cooperative, oriented and awake. No specific equipment is necessary.
Scoring information: Numeric rating scale ranging from 0 to 10 [5].
Cost: None
Evidence: No studies were found which assessed abdominal pain and patient-centred outcomes in critically ill.
Accuracy / measurement properties: Abdominal pain is subjective and no instrument exists to objectify this instrument. No data on validity and reliability have been found.
References
1. Reintam Blaser A, Starkopf J, Malbrain ML: Abdominal signs and symptoms in intensive care patients. Anaesthesiol Intensive Ther 2015, 47(4):379-387.
2. Moonen PJ, Reintam Blaser A, Starkopf J, Oudemans-van Straaten HM, Van der Mullen J, Vermeulen G, Malbrain M: The black box revelation: monitoring gastrointestinal function. Anaesthesiol Intensive Ther 2018, 50(1):72-81.
3. Reintam Blaser A, Malbrain ML, Starkopf J, Fruhwald S, Jakob SM, De Waele J, Braun JP, Poeze M, Spies C: Gastrointestinal function in intensive care patients: terminology, definitions and management. Recommendations of the ESICM Working Group on Abdominal Problems. Intensive Care Med 2012, 38(3):384-394.
4. Staniland JR, Ditchburn J, De Dombal FT: Clinical presentation of acute abdomen: study of 600 patients. Br Med J 1972, 3(5823):393-398.
5. Williamson A, Hoggart B: Pain: a review of three commonly used pain rating scales. J Clin Nurs 2005, 14(7):798-804.