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Nurse Leader Revolutionized Pain Management
17 Apr
Summary
- Pioneered pain management and led the British Journal of Pain.
- Established international pain management curriculum for nurses.
- Received prestigious awards despite serious illness.

Felicia Cox, an inspirational nurse leader, passed away at 60, leaving a legacy of pioneering work in pain management. Born in Launceston, Tasmania, Cox moved to London in 1990, where she eventually specialized in pain management in 1997. She became a lead for pain services and developed a knowledge and skills framework for the Royal College of Nursing.
Cox’s influence extended to Europe, where she helped create a curriculum for nurses specializing in pain management. She conducted the first European exams in 2024, establishing a recognized qualification. Her international contributions included pioneering work on the safe use of opioids after surgery.
She was elected a fellow of the Royal College of Nursing and received the British Pain Society's medal of distinction in 2025, a rare honor for a nurse. These achievements were remarkable given her 20-year battle with serious illness, including two cancers. Cox passed away on 2026-04-17T18:28:26+00:00, survived by her partner John and siblings.