Quality evaluation and headache management in a patient admitted to the neuroscience area. CALMA study

Abstract

Introduction

Headache is a very common neurological symptom. It is the first reason for consultation in neurology. About hospitalized patients, we do not have epidemiological data on the global prevalence of headaches in hospitalized patients.

Objective

To describe the prevalence of headaches in hospitalized patients, their triggers, and the level of compliance with nursing records.

Methodology

This is a descriptive, observational, and cross-sectional study at the Vall d'Hebron University Hospital (HUVH). The data collected were sociodemographic, related to the reason for admission and pain during admission. Statistical analysis was performed with R v4.1.1.

Results

Of the 45 admitted patients, 55% (25/45) participated, 55% (25/45) participated, 64% (16/25) were women. 60% (15/25) had presented headaches during admission, of which 73.3% (11/15) occurred in the last 24 hours. The 33.3% (5/15) recognized stress as the most frequent trigger, noise (5/15), and income derivatives (3/15). During the daily follow-up by the nurse, 100% (25/25) of the patients answered that they had been asked about pain in general and 32% (8/25) specifically about headaches. No records were obtained due to the computer program's non-existence of nursing clinical variables.

Conclussion

Headache is a symptom that occurs prevalently in hospitalized patients. Stress and noise seem to be triggers of this situation. Certain behaviors on the part of health centers and professionals could help improve the care of these patients.