Whilst most ICU patients receive analgesia and sedation it is recommended that ICU patients receive a bespoke care package aimed at optimising analgesia, minimising sedation, identifying/treating the underlying causes of any pain and anxiety/agitation experienced and providing tailored supportive care aimed at minimising delirium and improving communication, sleep, activity and recovery.

Significant pain has been found to be a common problem experienced by ICU patients occurring in approximately 50% of patients despite regular analgesia. Pain is experienced both at rest and during procedures.

Common sources of pain at rest include indwelling lines/tubes/catheters, areas of trauma/fractures, surgical sites, musculoskeletal (e.g. back, joint or limb) pain from immobility, gastrointestinal discomfort (e.g. constipation) and pressure areas.

Multiple procedures performed in the ICU have been identified as being painful including venous and arterial line insertion, tracheal tube suctioning, chest drain insertion, drain removal, turning and mobilising.