Acute vs Chronic Pain Overview

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What type of pain experience can be characterized by a temporary increase in pain levels despite baseline stability?

Neuropathic pain

Phantom limb pain

Nociceptive pain

Breakthrough cancer pain (correct)

What type of pain results from injuries or diseases affecting the somatosensory nervous system?

Acute pain

Neuropathic pain (correct)

Nociceptive pain

Phantom limb pain

Which class of medications is considered safer and nonaddictive for treating mild to moderate pain?

Opioid analgesics

Non-opioid analgesics (correct)

Adjuvant analgesics

Narcotic analgesics

Which is a common challenge associated with breakthrough cancer pain (BTCP)?

It can negatively impact the quality of life for patients and caregivers. Signup and view all the answers

Phantom limb pain is classified under which categories of pain?

Chronic pain and neuropathic pain Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic that differentiates acute pain from chronic pain?

Acute pain has an identifiable cause and is self-limiting. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following examples is MOST likely to be classified as chronic noncancer pain?

Ongoing back pain persisting for over 6 months. Signup and view all the answers

How does chronic pain impact psychological well-being compared to acute pain?

Chronic pain can have significant psychological and cognitive effects. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is TRUE regarding cancer pain?

Cancer pain can vary in duration and be either chronic or acute. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of chronic pain as opposed to acute pain?

Chronic pain may lack an identifiable cause and varies in intensity. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes respiratory depression in opioid overdose?

Fewer than 10 respirations per minute Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following opioids is classified as an agonist?

Fentanyl Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of administering Naloxone (Narcan)?

To reverse opioid overdose Signup and view all the answers

What is a key indicator of opioid toxicity?

Decreased level of consciousness Signup and view all the answers

When is it essential for a nurse to check vital signs in relation to opioid administration?

Before administering opioid analgesics Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about patient education on opioids is true?

Patient education includes a medication education handout Signup and view all the answers

How is orthostatic hypotension defined?

A decrease in blood pressure upon position change Signup and view all the answers

Which side effect might indicate opioid overdose during patient observation?

Pinpoint pupils Signup and view all the answers

What should be monitored to identify potential misuse of opioids?

Patient response to opioids Signup and view all the answers

Which statement regarding agonist-antagonist analgesics is correct?

They may cause withdrawal symptoms in dependent patients. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Acute vs Chronic Pain

Acute pain is protective, short-term, with identifiable causes linked to injuries or surgeries.
Characterized by a sudden onset and a healing period; resolves as injury heals, typically within weeks.
Patients often experience fear and anxiety due to anticipating quick relief.
Chronic pain, lasting longer than 3 to 6 months, lacks a predictable resolution and identifiable cause.
Associated with significant impact on a person's quality of life and is often viewed as a disease.
Examples of chronic pain include arthritis, fibromyalgia, and peripheral neuropathy.
Chronic pain may originate from an initial injury or ongoing conditions.

Cancer Pain vs Neuropathic Pain

Cancer pain can manifest as either acute or chronic, frequently experienced in advanced cancer stages or during treatment.
Guidelines for managing cancer pain encourage comprehensive treatment and multimodal approaches for effective pain relief.
Breakthrough cancer pain (BTCP) refers to sudden pain spikes in patients with otherwise stable pain; it negatively affects quality of life.
Neuropathic pain arises from peripheral nerve injuries due to various factors, impacting either peripheral or central nerves.
Cancer pain typically results from tissue injury (nociceptive pain), while neuropathic pain stems from nerve damage.

Phantom Limb Pain

Phantom limb pain is classified both as chronic and neuropathic pain.
It manifests as discomfort or pain in a limb that has been amputated.

Education on Pain Medication - Opioid vs Non-opioid

Non-opioid analgesics, like acetaminophen and NSAIDs, are preferred for mild to moderate pain due to lower addiction potential.
Opioids are essential for moderate to severe pain management but carry risks of misuse and addiction.
Monitoring patient response to opioid administration is crucial for preventing dependency or overdose.
Two classes of opioids:
- Agonists (e.g., morphine, fentanyl) and agonist-antagonists (e.g., pentazocine).
Patient education on medication administration, purpose, timing, and side effects is vital, with a focus on the teach-back method for understanding.

Opioid Toxicity

Opioid toxicity presents with pinpoint pupils, respiratory depression, and decreased consciousness.
Treatment primarily involves Naloxone (Narcan), the antidote for opioid overdose.
Symptoms include bradypnea, slurred speech, and muscle weakness.

Orthostatic Hypotension

Defined as a significant decrease in blood pressure when moving to an upright position.
Symptoms may include dizziness or light-headedness, particularly in dehydrated or anemic patients.
Vital signs should be measured supine, sitting, and standing to check for orthostatic changes.
This condition increases fall risk, especially in older adults on antihypertensive medications.

Radiation, Convection, Evaporation, Conduction

Body heat loss occurs through radiation, conduction, convection, and evaporation.
Radiation: Heat transfer without direct contact can account for up to 85% of heat loss; increased by peripheral vasodilation.
Conduction: Direct contact transmits heat; applying cold items increases heat loss.
Convection: Heat loss via air movement; using fans enhances this process.
Evaporation: Continuous heat loss occurs when liquids convert to gas, approximately 600-900 mL lost daily through skin and lungs.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz explores the differences between acute and chronic pain, emphasizing the characteristics and causes of acute pain. Participants will learn about the protective nature of acute pain and its role in signaling injury or disease. Understanding these distinctions can help in managing pain effectively.