A survey of experience of parenteral analgesia at Role 1.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the confidence of deploying Role 1 Medical Officers (MOs) in the use of parenteral analgesia, to collate opinion as to whether analgesia training for Role 1 MOs is fit for purpose and to explore options for future analgesic approaches at Role 1. METHODS: A survey distributed to Role 1 doctors prior to deployment to Afghanistan. RESULTS: Areas of expressed concern included the use of ketamine and a lack of experience of intraosseous drug administration. Qualitative data collected included anecdotal experiences with analgesia administration which provides evidence to support a change in training. CONCLUSIONS: Doctors have the capability to provide good analgesic care but lack the confidence and experience to do it effectively. Improved analgesia training is required for deploying Role 1 MOs.

A proposed model for improving battlefield analgesia training: post-graduate medical officer pain management day.

In response to increasing awareness of the need to improve Post Graduate Medical Officers training in the use of analgesics when on Operations and exercises, a new "Pain Day" format has been realised and included in the Post Graduate Medical Officers Course. This article discusses the format of the Pain Day; gives evidence of the feedback received; explores areas where further training may be required and suggests mechanisms through which improved training could be provided throughout the armed forces medical community.