Chapter 36: Pain Management
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Questions and Answers

A patient reports a throbbing headache accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound. Which aspect of pain provides the MOST relevant information for the nurse to consider, according to the presented pain concepts?

  • The subjective nature of pain and the patient’s personal experience. (correct)
  • The physiological process of transduction at the site of tissue injury.
  • The objective measure of pain intensity using a standardized pain scale.
  • The transmission of electrical signals through afferent nerves to the spinal cord.

A nurse is educating a patient about pain management options. In what order should the nurse prioritize the following actions?

  • Educating, Advocating, Monitoring, Evaluating.
  • Monitoring, Evaluating, Educating, Advocating.
  • Advocating, Monitoring, Educating, Evaluating. (correct)
  • Evaluating, Monitoring, Advocating, Educating.

During the assessment of a patient experiencing chronic pain, the nurse notes that the patient's facial expressions and body language do not consistently align with the pain intensity reported. Which factor should the nurse consider FIRST?

  • The patient's cognitive, affective, behavioral, and sensory factors influencing pain perception. (correct)
  • The patient is attempting to cope with the pain, leading to suppression of behavioral responses.
  • The patient has developed tolerance for the pain, resulting in decreased pain perception.
  • The patient is likely exaggerating pain to seek stronger medications.

A patient who has had surgery reports incisional pain. Which physiological process is responsible for converting the initial injury stimulus into an electrical signal?

<p>Transduction (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient reports pain in their lower back. The nurse understands that for the patient to consciously register this sensation as pain, which step of nociception must occur?

<p>The brain interprets the afferent nerve signals as pain. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which physiological response is least likely to be observed in a patient experiencing chronic pain compared to acute pain?

<p>Elevated heart rate (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of pain threshold?

<p>The point at which a stimulus is first recognized as painful. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient who cannot communicate verbally is grimacing, agitated and guarding their abdomen. What pain scale adaptations would be most effective in assessing this patient's pain?

<p>Using a behavioral pain scale and observing nonverbal indicators. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient reports a pain level of 10/10 due to burns. Which nursing diagnosis takes the highest priority?

<p>Acute pain (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The gate control theory of pain proposes that:

<p>The perception of pain is modulated by a gating mechanism in the spinal cord. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with chronic joint pain reports feeling helpless and unable to perform daily activities. Besides pain management, which intervention is most important?

<p>Referring the patient for physical therapy and occupational therapy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which theory posits that pain is a multidimensional experience shaped by a genetically controlled network of neurons unique to each individual?

<p>Neuromatrix theory (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component is not a characteristic of a SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) patient-centered goal for pain management?

<p>The goal includes subjective feelings, not numerical values. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of pain originates in one area but is felt in another part of the body?

<p>Referred pain (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Pain that continues even after the original painful stimulus is gone is characteristic of:

<p>Neuropathic pain (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following patient statements indicates effective coping with chronic pain, according to the information provided?

<p>&quot;I am able to do my daily activities with my pain at a 3 or lower.&quot; (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient taking newly prescribed pain medication is expected to have an increased ability to concentrait within 2 hours of receiving the prescribed does. What should the nurse emphasize about this goal?

<p>The patient should not expect complete pain relief, just improved concentration. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Phantom limb pain is a type of neuropathic pain that is BEST explained by which of the following processes?

<p>The brain continuing to receive messages from the area of the amputation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do physiologic stress responses affect a patient when acute pain is left untreated?

<p>They may have adverse effects for the patient. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient consistently requests pain medication, but exhibits minimal behavioral signs of pain. Which action should the nurse prioritize?

<p>Assessing the patient for potential psychological factors influencing pain perception. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a component of the SOCRATES pain assessment tool?

<p>Diagnosis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the sensory interaction theory, how does stimulating large-diameter nerve fibers affect pain signals?

<p>It can inhibit pain signals carried by thin fibers. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is the MOST appropriate way to assess pain in patients who are unable to communicate?

<p>Observe for nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, body movements, and vocalizations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following nonpharmacologic pain management techniques relies on focusing the mind to promote relaxation and reduce pain perception?

<p>Progressive relaxation techniques (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is prescribed an opioid analgesic via patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). What is the primary advantage of PCA over traditional opioid delivery methods?

<p>It allows patients to self-administer medication within prescribed limits, providing better pain control. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the use of adjuvant medications in pain management?

<p>Adjuvant medications enhance the effects of standard pain medications or treat their side effects synergistically. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with chronic back pain is being treated with a combination of ibuprofen, massage therapy, and meditation. This approach is an example of what?

<p>Multimodal analgesia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is educating a patient on the use of transdermal opioid patches. What is a key point to emphasize regarding the safe use of this medication?

<p>Dispose of used patches safely, out of reach of children and pets. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of palliative care in the context of pain management?

<p>To relieve pain and improve quality of life, regardless of the patient's prognosis. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the provided information, what percentage of nurses are estimated to abuse drugs or alcohol during their careers?

<p>10% (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient reports experiencing constipation while taking opioid analgesics for chronic pain. Which of the following adjuvant medications would be most appropriate to manage this side effect?

<p>Laxatives (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient expresses concern about becoming addicted to pain medication. Which nursing intervention best addresses this barrier to adequate pain management?

<p>Reassure the patient that addiction is rare when medication is used for pain relief and educate them on the difference between dependence and addiction. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A healthcare facility lacks a formal pain management team or standardized pain assessment protocols. What initial action should a nurse take to address this systemic barrier?

<p>Advocate for the creation of a multidisciplinary pain management team and the implementation of evidence-based pain management protocols. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient's insurance denies coverage for a prescribed pain medication. What is the nurse's most appropriate next step?

<p>Advocate for the patient by contacting the insurance company to appeal the denial, exploring alternative medications, or seeking financial assistance programs. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which documentation practice is most important for evaluating the effectiveness of a pain management intervention?

<p>Documenting the time of medication administration, the patient's pain level before and after the intervention, and the duration of adequate pain relief. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient's pain relief goals are consistently unmet despite various interventions. What should the nurse do?

<p>Collaborate with the healthcare team and the patient to reassess the pain, explore alternative treatment options, and consider non-pharmacological approaches. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is developing a care plan for a patient in pain. What is the MOST essential element that should be included in the definition of pain to individualize the plan?

<p>The patient's subjective perception of the pain. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient reports increasing pain despite receiving regular doses of analgesics. What is the nurse's MOST appropriate next action?

<p>Reassess the patient's pain and adjust the pain management plan in consultation with the healthcare team. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with acute pain following a car accident is experiencing an elevated heart rate and blood pressure. Considering the physiology of pain, what initial response is the MOST likely cause of these vital sign changes?

<p>Stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a diverse group of patients each experiencing pain. Which factor should the nurse prioritize when tailoring pain management strategies to each individual?

<p>The patient's cultural background, past pain experiences, and emotional state. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a pain assessment, a patient with chronic arthritis appears withdrawn and reports a pain level of 7 out of 10, even though they are able to perform some range-of-motion exercises. Which approach is MOST appropriate for the nurse to explore?

<p>Evaluate the patient's coping mechanisms, emotional state, and the impact of pain on daily activities. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient recovering from surgery is experiencing significant pain and expresses feelings of hopelessness and isolation. Besides 'Acute Pain,' which additional nursing diagnosis is MOST relevant to address the patient's overall well-being?

<p>Anxiety (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is setting patient-centered goals for pain management. Which outcome criterion would BEST indicate effective pain management?

<p>Patient demonstrates an improved ability to perform activities of daily living with acceptable comfort levels. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When planning pain management for a patient with chronic back pain, which approach is MOST important for the nurse to consider?

<p>Consulting with the healthcare team to explore a combination of pharmacological and alternative therapies. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a serious injury reports no pain relief after prescribed analgesics and non-pharmacologic interventions. What is the most appropriate next step for the nurse?

<p>Notify the primary care provider about the patient's lack of pain relief. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following vital sign changes indicates a physiologic response to acute pain?

<p>Increased blood pressure (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When administering analgesics to an elderly patient, what principle should guide the nurse's actions?

<p>Start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed, considering potential metabolism and excretion changes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse administers intravenous morphine at 0830. When should the nurse first reassess the patient to evaluate the medication's effectiveness?

<p>0845 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During episodes of acute pain, the endocrine system releases excessive hormones. For which potential metabolic imbalance should the nurse monitor?

<p>Hyperglycemia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient reports a pain level of 8 out of 10, but is laughing and talking normally with visitors. Which factor should the nurse consider FIRST?

<p>Cultural differences may influence the patient's expression of pain. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with chronic pain requests opioid medication every 2 hours, but the prescribed interval is every 4 hours. What should the nurse do FIRST after hearing this request?

<p>Assess the characteristics of the patient's pain, including location, intensity, quality, and aggravating/alleviating factors. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The nurse is teaching a patient about managing chronic pain at home. Which statement indicates the best understanding of non-pharmacological pain management techniques?

<p>&quot;I can use non-pharmacological methods regularly, even when my pain is manageable, to potentially reduce the need for medication.&quot; (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with chronic pain reports that the prescribed pain medication is no longer effective. What is the nurse's most appropriate first action?

<p>Assess the characteristics of the pain and contributing factors. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is being discharged with a prescription opioid and expresses concern about side effects. Which teaching point is most important for the nurse to emphasize?

<p>Increase fiber and fluid intake to prevent constipation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is prescribed a non-pharmacological pain management technique for chronic headaches. Which outcome would indicate the intervention was effective?

<p>Patient reports a decreased frequency and intensity of headaches. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is caring for a post-operative patient who is using a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump. The nurse assesses the patient and notes a decreased respiratory rate. What action should the nurse take first?

<p>Stop the PCA pump and assess the patient's level of sedation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When developing a pain management plan for an older adult patient, which consideration is most important for the nurse to address?

<p>Age-related organ changes may affect medication metabolism and excretion. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a history of opioid abuse is experiencing acute pain after surgery. What is the most appropriate approach to managing this patient's pain?

<p>Provide opioids at the lowest effective dose, with close monitoring. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient reports breakthrough pain despite regularly taking long-acting opioid medication. Which intervention is most appropriate for the nurse to implement?

<p>Assess the characteristics of the breakthrough pain and administer a short-acting opioid. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following aspects of pain assessment is most helpful in differentiating between nociceptive and neuropathic pain?

<p>The patient's description of the pain quality (e.g., sharp, burning, shooting). (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient experiencing acute pain exhibits signs of hyperglycemia. Which physiological process best explains this response?

<p>Release of hormones that promote increased blood glucose levels. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient who underwent a below-the-knee amputation three days ago reports pain in the amputated limb. Which explanation BEST describes the underlying cause of this type of pain?

<p>The brain continues to receive messages from the area of amputation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with type 2 diabetes is admitted with a fractured femur. What is the rationale for prioritizing pain management and blood glucose monitoring for this patient?

<p>Pain and stress can exacerbate hyperglycemia, complicating diabetes management. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient reports phantom limb pain following an amputation. Which statement accurately describes the physiological process involved in this type of pain?

<p>The brain reorganizes its sensory map, leading to the perception of pain in the missing limb. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with diabetes who has a fractured femur is experiencing uncontrolled pain. What effect is the pain likely to have on the patient's blood glucose levels?

<p>Increased blood glucose due to stress hormone release. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Three days post-amputation, a patient reports feeling burning pain in the missing limb. What intervention is MOST crucial for the nurse to implement?

<p>Initiating a referral to a pain specialist for evaluation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a fractured femur and a history of diabetes is scheduled for surgery. What is the MOST important consideration for the nurse regarding pain management during the perioperative period?

<p>Implementing a multimodal pain management plan tailored to the patient's individual needs. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with diabetes complains of increased pain and requests pain medication more frequently. What action should the nurse take FIRST?

<p>Assess the patient’s pain level and characteristics thoroughly. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is Pain?

A complex experience with physical and emotional aspects, unique to each individual.

Nurse's Role in Pain Management

Pain assessment, monitoring, advocating, educating, and evaluating pain relief.

Transduction in Pain

Conversion of stimuli into electrical impulses at the site of tissue injury.

Transmission in Pain

The action potential travels through nerves to the spinal cord and brain.

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Perception of Pain

Brain interprets afferent nerve signals as pain.

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Pain Threshold

The lowest intensity at which the brain recognizes a stimulus as painful.

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Pain Tolerance

The intensity or duration of pain a patient can endure.

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Pain Modulation

The brain can change the perception of pain by sending inhibitory signals to the spinal cord, impeding transmission.

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Sensory Interaction Theory

Signals from touch fibers may inhibit signals carried by pain fibers.

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Gate Control Theory

Interplay of signals at the spinal cord determines if painful stimuli reach the brain.

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Neuromatrix Theory

Pain is a multidimensional experience controlled by a unique neural network.

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Neuropathic Pain

Results from nerve injury; pain continues after the painful stimuli are gone.

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Dysesthesia

An unpleasant, abnormal sensation, experienced spontaneously or in response to stimulation.

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Allodynia

Pain due to a stimulus that does not normally provoke pain.

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Hyperalgesia

Increased pain from a stimulus that normally provokes pain.

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Patient Barriers to Pain Management

Fear of addiction, medication costs, and access issues.

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Provider Barriers to Pain Management

Inadequate skills, inaccurate beliefs, and biases.

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Overcoming Systemic Barriers

Prioritize pain, implement systematic approaches and teams.

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Pain: Physiological Responses

Changes in vital signs (BP, pulse) can indicate a physiological response to pain.

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Documenting Medication Effectiveness

Time of medication, reassessment time, and duration of relief.

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Pain: Behavioral Responses

Facial expressions, guarding, restlessness, or withdrawal can signal pain.

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Evaluating Pain Intervention Success

Pain goal achievement through implemented interventions.

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Pain: Psychological Responses

Anxiety, fear, depression, anger and hopelessness can be psychological responses to pain.

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Acute Pain Supporting Data

Areas on face, chest, arms, and hands from burned skin.

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Chronic Pain Supporting Data

Edema of joints, painful mobility, inability to manage ADLs, feelings of helplessness

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Difficulty Coping Supporting Data

Severe pain, inability to ask for help, lack of appetite, poor concentration.

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SMART Goals

Goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

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Patient Pain Level Goal

Steady decrease in pain level to 4 or 5/10.

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Multimodal Pain Management

Using a combination of different types of pain relief methods.

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Nonpharmacologic Pain Relief

Pain relief methods that don't involve medication, such as relaxation, massage, or positioning.

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Pharmacologic Pain Management

Pain relief using medications, including non-opioids and opioids.

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Non-opioid Analgesics

Drugs that relieve pain without containing opioids.

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Opioid Analgesics

Medications that relieve pain and bind to opioid receptors in the brain.

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Addiction

Physical or emotional need for a prescribed medication or illicit drug.

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Adjuvant Medications

Medications that enhance the effects of pain relievers or treat side effects.

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Palliative Care

Care focused on relieving pain and improving quality of life for people with serious illnesses.

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Pain Definition

A subjective physical and emotional experience.

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Nurse's Role in Pain

Assess pain, implement interventions, and evaluate outcomes.

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Physiology of Pain

Injury triggers stress response via sympathetic, then parasympathetic, nervous system.

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Influences on Pain

Age, gender, culture, past experiences, and emotions all influence pain.

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Pain Nursing Diagnoses

Acute and Chronic Pain. Also, address related issues like gastric distress and respiratory depression.

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Pain Outcome Criteria

Reduce pain level! Also, consider vital signs and behavior.

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Pain Management Plan

Combine meds and alternative therapies for complete relief.

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Physiologic Stress Response

The body's attempt to protect itself after an injury.

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Pain Assessment Factors

Factors like medical history, appearance, age, culture, and appetite should be considered.

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Optimal Pain Medication Dose

Administer a dose that balances pain relief with minimal side effects, based on patient feedback.

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Most Accurate Pain Level Assessment

Asking the patient to describe and rate their pain is most accurate for alert patients.

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Nonpharmacological Pain Relief Methods

Relaxation, repositioning, distraction, and guided imagery may help.

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Benefits of Music Therapy

Music can improve quality of life, reduce pain and stress, and improve mood.

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Repositioning Benefits

Reposition and adjust the patient every 2 hours.

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Evaluate Medication Effectiveness

Assess the patient's pain level to see if the medication is effective.

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Pain: Patient's Perspective

Pain is what the patient says it is.

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Lack of Pain Relief

If a patient isn't getting pain relief, let the doctor know.

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Acute Pain: Physiologic Response

Acute pain often causes blood pressure to increase.

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Analgesics for Elderly

Start low with the dose and increase as needed for pain relief.

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IV Pain Meds: Reassessment Time

Check for pain relief 15 to 30 minutes after IV medication.

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Acute Pain: Endocrine Effect

High blood sugar levels.

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Opioid Withdrawal

Withdrawal symptoms can occur if opioid use is abruptly stopped.

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Pre-existing Hypotension

Monitor vital signs and report any deviations to the provider.

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Pain Intensity Assessment

Assess the patient's pain intensity using a standard pain scale.

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Pain-Induced Hyperglycemia

Elevated blood glucose levels due to hormone release during acute pain.

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Phantom Pain

The sensation of pain in an amputated limb, perceived even though the limb is no longer present.

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Radiating Pain

Pain that extends from its origin to surrounding areas.

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Referred Pain

Pain felt in an area separate from the injury's origin.

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Psychogenic Pain

Pain without a detectable physical source, believed to be psychological.

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Prioritizing Analgesia

Administering pain medication promptly to a patient experiencing pain.

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Glucose Monitoring & Pain

Monitoring blood glucose levels in patients experiencing pain, as pain can increase glucose.

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Hormones and Hyperglycemia

Pain increases blood glucose by hormone release.

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Study Notes

Normal Structure and Function: Nociception

  • At the site of tissue injury, nociceptors detect pain stimuli and transduce this electrochemical response into an electrical impulse (signal).
  • The action potential, or electrical signal, transmits through an afferent nerve to the spinal cord and brain.
  • Once pain is noticed, the brain can change the perception of it by sending inhibitory input to the spinal cord to impede the transmission

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