A nursing approach to easing pain.

Competency in pain assessment, analgesic administration, and evaluation of response to treatment is the responsibility of the nurse. The Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR, 1994) suggests the mnemonic of "ABCDE". Ask about pain regularly and Assess pain systematically. Believe the patient in reports of pain and what relieves it. Choose pain control options appropriate for the patient, family and setting. Deliver interventions in a timely, logical and coordinated fashion. Empower patients and families. Enabling them to control their course to the greatest extent possible. The greatest gift we, as nurses, can give is to know and meet expected outcomes of pain management. The greatest gift we can give the patient/client/resident is to believe them and ease their pain. The greatest gift we can give family members is the ability to see their loved one free of pain. The memories of hours of pain and suffering will live with the patient, family and friends for the rest of their lives. Nurses can do so much to provide that comfort. What will you do?