Pain Assessment and Management
Category: Comfort Measures
Overview
Comprehensive pain assessment using standardized tools and implementation of appropriate pain management strategies.
Indications
All patients with pain complaints, post-operative patients, chronic pain conditions, regular reassessment during hospitalization.
Contraindications
No contraindications for assessment. Management contraindications vary by intervention and patient condition.
Equipment Needed
Pain assessment scales (0-10 numeric, Wong-Baker FACES, behavioral scales), documentation materials, comfort measures supplies.
Procedure Steps
1. Introduce yourself and explain pain assessment
2. Use appropriate pain scale for patient's age and condition
3. Ask about pain location, quality, intensity, timing
4. Assess factors that worsen or improve pain
5. Evaluate impact on activities of daily living
6. Document pain score and characteristics
7. Implement ordered pain management interventions
8. Provide non-pharmacological comfort measures
9. Reassess pain within 30 minutes of intervention
10. Document response to treatment
11. Adjust plan as needed
12. Educate patient about pain management options
Safety Considerations
Use age-appropriate assessment tools. Monitor for adverse effects of pain medications. Assess respiratory status with opioid administration. Consider cultural factors in pain expression.
Potential Complications
Inadequate pain control, opioid-related adverse effects, respiratory depression, medication interactions, tolerance, addiction potential.
Documentation
Record pain score, location, quality, interventions provided, patient response, and reassessment findings.
References
American Pain Society. (2016). Principles of Analgesic Use. The Joint Commission Pain Management Standards.