Pain Management prompt questions

USE this card to remind yourself of useful questions to ask when assessing or reassessing a patient's pain. Remember to follow your hospital's pain management policies and documentation procedures.

•	Where does it hurt?

•	How bad does the pain hurt (use a measurement tool appropriate for your patient, such as 1 to 10 scale or Wong-Baker face scale)?

•	How long does the pain last? Is it constant or does it come and go?

•	How does the pain affect your ability to function?

•	Can you describe the pain (Throbbing, sharp, radiating, etc)?

•	What makes the pain worse?

•	What makes the pain better? What do you normally use at home to treat your pain?

•	Are you experiencing any other symptoms because of the pain (Nausea, weakness, etc)?

Back of card

Remember:

•	Every patient has the right to have his or her pain treated

•	Screen and assess all patients for pain

•	Reassess your patient's pain

•	Prescribe effective pain control medication or treatments

•	Address continued needs for pain control

•	Make sure you are properly trained in pain management

•	Always follow your hospital's policies on communicating and documenting pain management

•	Educate your patients and families on proper pain management