Nurses Responsibility in Treating Pain

Nurses Responsibility in Treating Pain

Pain treatment in individuals varies according to the nature and type of discomfort experienced by the patient. Some pains are acute, while others may be chronic or can emanate from a condition of a patient getting palliative care (Czarnecki & Turner, 2018). Besides, pain is not only physiological but may also be emotional, psychological, or spiritual. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the registered nurse in charge to accurately diagnose the cause of the pain in a patient so that they can administer the correct paint management strategy with little side effects (Czarnecki & Turner, 2018). This paper discusses the role of the registered nurse in treating pain in patients.

While there are myths and rumors that may contribute to improper pain treatment among patients, it is the responsibility of the registered nurse to discharge their duties according to the procedures laid out and be accountable for every action taken while administering treatment. The nurse should ensure that whatever pain relief measures used adheres to the nursing regulations and standards. Further, it is the responsibility of the licensed nurse to assess the patient’s background and beliefs properly so that one pain relief method used does not result in another form of discomfort say, from physiological to emotional pain (Darnall, 2019). To effectively treat pain, a nurse should possess different discomfort management skills.

Firstly, the nurse needs to have knowledge of self so that they can understand matters revolving around attitude, beliefs, cultural background, and values. These factors form a significant basis for assessing, evaluating, as well as interpreting the physical response, appearance, and behavior of the patients to gauge the type and level of pain they are undergoing (Darnall, 2019). Secondly, the nurse needs to have full knowledge of the pain the patient is suffering from. Pain is personal; hence, the nurse should get it right how the patient says it. Pain assessment skills are vital at this stage so that the nurse can administer the correct treatment procedure. Lastly, in the pain treatment cycle, the nurse has the responsibility of having knowledge of the care standards. These may include acknowledging the patient’s pain, its source, and having the skills of the best way to manage the discomfort. The nurse needs to have both pharmacologic as well as non-pharmacologic interventions for treating pain (Czarnecki & Turner, 2018). When to apply whichever type of intervention will be guided by the nurse’s knowledge of pain and proper assessment of the patient.

In conclusion, patients have a right to be relieved of the pain of whatever nature. The nurses have the sole responsibility of understanding their patients through proper communication and assessment so that they can administer the best pain relief strategy that leaves no negative impact on the patient.

References:

Czarnecki, M. & Turner, H. (2018). Core curriculum for pain management nursing. St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier.

Darnall, B. (2019). Psychological treatment for patients with chronic pain. Washington DC: American Psychological Association.