The physical examination in cancer pain assessment.

OBJECTIVES

To examine pain-related constructs, illness related constructs, and the particular importance of the physical examination as integrative steps in a comprehensive pain assessment.

DATA SOURCES

Review articles and book chapters related to the physical examination and evaluation of cancer pain.

CONCLUSIONS

The physical examination is a fundamental aspect of cancer pain assessment. It provides unique information that can be combined with the history, data from the medical record, and the results of additional studies to yield a comprehensive understanding of the patient.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

The nurse's understanding of pain-related constructs, illness-related constructs, and the importance of the physical examination will help provide strategies for pain management that are most likely to offer both pain relief and improved quality of life.