Many people
used to think that severe pain was something they just had to put up
with, fortunately, that's no longer true. Today, thanks to advances in
treatment options, physicians and nurses can work with patients to help prevent or
relieve pain. When pain is controlled, patients heal faster, get their
strength back faster and feel better sooner. Both medication and
non-medication treatments can be successful in helping to prevent and control pain.
Our goal is for your pain to be 4 or less on a scale of 0-10. If you're in pain,
please ask your nurse what comfort measures or medication may be
appropriate for you. In most cases it will take 30-60 minutes for pain
medication to work. Please keep this in mind when you are discussing your pain
level with your nurse. Are You in Pain?
As a patient, you
can expect:
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Information about pain and pain relief
measures
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Concerned staff committed to pain
prevention and management
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Health professionals who respond quickly
to reportsof pain
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State-of-the-art pain
management |
Patient Responsibilities
As a patient, we encourage you to:
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Ask your physician or nurse what to
expect regarding pain and pain management
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Discuss pain relief options with your
physician and nurse
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Work with your physician and nurse to
develop a pain management plan
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Ask for pain relief when pain first
begins
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Help your physician and nurse assess
your pain
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Tell your physician or nurse if your
pain is not relieved
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Tell your physician or nurse about any
worries you have about taking pain medication
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