<p><strong>Abstract</strong></p><p>The aim of the study was to describe the level of understanding of nursing staff regarding the expression of pain by patients suffering from dementia. A further aim was to examine what help and support is available to nursing staff in aiding assessment of pain levels in these patients.</p><p>The study is descriptive in character and has a qualitative perspective.</p><p>Six interview subjects, who were strategically chosen for convenience, were selected to help in this study. The criteria used for selection was that all should have a minimum of three years experience caring for patients suffering from dementia. As an aid to the interview process, semi structured questions and an interview guide were used. The material gathered was then literally transcribed, analysed and divided into eight categories and sub categories.</p><p>Interviewees report that patient express pain in a variety of different ways. Some patients use body language where they become withdrawn and their facial expressions and posture alters. Mood changes are also described, with patients becoming restless and anxious and sometimes aggressive. Verbal expressions of pain, such as wailing and screaming, are also described as well as the observation that patients suffering from dementia sometimes develop difficulties in sleeping and can wander off.</p><p>Further observations from the study show that combined importance of really knowing and being familiar with the patient and his/her background, a good relationship between nursing staff and the patients relatives, and finally, the need of pain assessment tools.</p><p> </p>

Abstract The aim of the study was to describe the level of understanding of nursing staff regarding the expression of pain by patients suffering from dementia. A further aim was to examine what help and support is available to nursing staff in aiding assessment of pain levels in these patients. The study is descriptive in character and has a qualitative perspective. Six interview subjects, who were strategically chosen for convenience, were selected to help in this study. The criteria used for selection was that all should have a minimum of three years experience caring for patients suffering from dementia. As an aid to the interview process, semi structured questions and an interview guide were used. The material gathered was then literally transcribed, analysed and divided into eight categories and sub categories. Interviewees report that patient express pain in a variety of different ways. Some patients use body language where they become withdrawn and their facial expressions and posture alters. Mood changes are also described, with patients becoming restless and anxious and sometimes aggressive. Verbal expressions of pain, such as wailing and screaming, are also described as well as the observation that patients suffering from dementia sometimes develop difficulties in sleeping and can wander off. Further observations from the study show that combined importance of really knowing and being familiar with the patient and his/her background, a good relationship between nursing staff and the patients relatives, and finally, the need of pain assessment tools.