7.0: Introduction

Figure 7.1 A patient in pain using a nonpharmacological method. (credit: modification of “Best Pillows for Shoulder Pain” by “samuelemunemu32”/flickr, Public Domain)

Pain is subjective to the individual and may be characterized in many ways. Regardless, most people will experience it at some point in their life. The assessment and management of pain is a top priority for the nurse in providing comprehensive patient care. By conducting a pain assessment, the nurse can gain an understanding of the patient’s subjective description of pain, including the severity of symptoms. Using the results from the assessment, the nurse can then implement both pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions to manage the pain. Collaboration with the health care team is critical for achieving the best possible plan of care to relieve pain. This means the patient should be an active participant in the treatment plan, including establishing reasonable goals for managing pain.