How should a nurse address patient pain management?

The correct approach to patient pain management involves assessing pain regularly and providing interventions as necessary. This method acknowledges that pain is a subjective experience and can vary significantly from patient to patient. Regular assessment enables the nurse to determine the effectiveness of pain management strategies and adjust them as needed. This may include not only medications but also non-pharmacological interventions, such as relaxation techniques or physical therapy, to ensure a comprehensive approach to pain relief.

Effective pain management requires active communication with the patient, taking into account their individual pain experiences, treatment preferences, and any potential side effects of medications. Performing routine assessments ensures that any changes in pain level can be identified and addressed promptly, thus enhancing patient comfort and satisfaction. This holistic approach ultimately leads to better patient outcomes and fosters a supportive nurse-patient relationship.

In contrast, other choices can lead to inadequate pain management. For instance, assuming pain levels without assessment ignores the individual nature of pain and can result in undertreatment. Administering medication only once per day might not be sufficient to control pain effectively, especially if the patient experiences fluctuations in pain. Additionally, solely relying on patient self-reporting may overlook non-verbal cues of pain, particularly in patients who may have difficulty articulating their discomfort due to conditions such as