Pain Management

Pain

An unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage.

Acute Pain

Acts as a warning sign, activating the sympathetic nervous system and causing 'Fight or Flight' reactions.

Chronic Pain

Persistent pain that continues beyond the normal recovery period and may not have an identifiable cause.

Nociceptive Pain

Pain due to damage to body tissue, including somatic and visceral sources.

Referred Pain

Pain felt in one area of the body but originating from another area.

Radiating Pain

Pain that extends to another area of the body, such as pain from a heart attack.

Neuropathic Pain

Pain resulting from nerve injury; pain persists even after the initial injury has healed.

Self-report of Pain

The most reliable indication of pain, as stated by the patient.

Nonopioid Analgesics

Medications like acetaminophen and NSAIDs used for mild to moderate pain management.

Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA)

A method allowing patients to administer their own pain relief within prescribed limits.

Pharmacologic Interventions

Medications used to manage pain, including nonopioids and opioids.

Complications of Inadequate Pain Management

Can lead to impaired recovery, inability to perform ADLs, poor sleep, unnecessary suffering, and increased healthcare costs.