Differentiate between acute pain and chronic pain. 

1. Define pain: Pain is a complex sensory and emotional experience, unpleasant in nature, that is associated with actual or potential tissue damage.
2. Differentiate between acute pain and chronic pain: Acute pain is a type of pain that occurs suddenly and is usually related to an injury or disease, whereas chronic pain lasts for an extended period and may be related to a long-term medical condition.
3. Why do people have individualized responses to pain? People have individualized responses to pain due to differences in pain perception, cultural and social factors, past experiences with pain, and genetic factors.

a. Outline the steps involved in investigating pain as a present problem: The steps involved in investigating pain as a present problem include:

• Taking a thorough history to determine the duration, location, intensity, quality, and aggravating/relieving factors of the pain.
• Conducting a physical examination to identify any abnormalities or potential causes of the pain.
• Ordering diagnostic tests such as blood work, imaging studies, or nerve conduction tests to assist in identifying the underlying cause of the pain.
• Evaluating the patient’s response to previous treatments and medications.
• Referring the patient to a pain specialist if necessary.

b. List cultural considerations when taking a history and performing a physical examination related to pain: Cultural considerations when taking a history and performing a physical examination related to pain include:

• Language barriers and the need for interpreter services.
• Differences in pain perception and cultural beliefs about pain.
• Religious or spiritual beliefs that may impact the patient’s perception of pain and pain management.
• Attitudes towards medication and alternative therapies.

Which personal and social history factors should be explored in a patient in pain? Personal and social history factors that should be explored in a patient in pain include:

• Medical history including past illnesses and surgeries.
• Medications including pain medications and over-the-counter drugs.
• Family history of chronic pain or pain-related conditions.
• Social history including employment, living situation, and support system.
• Substance use or abuse history.

When a patient complains of pain, how should it be assessed? When a patient complains of pain, it should be assessed by:

• Determining the location, quality, intensity, and duration of the pain.
• Assessing any factors that aggravate or relieve the pain.
• Using a pain scale to quantify the patient’s pain.
• Assessing the patient’s emotional and psychological response to pain.
• Performing a physical examination to identify any abnormalities or potential causes of the pain.

Describe how to determine cuff size in an adult patient: To determine cuff size in an adult patient, measure the circumference of the patient’s upper arm and select a cuff size that is appropriate for their arm circumference.

Pain is known as which vital sign? Pain is known as the fifth vital sign.

Why is it difficult to assess pain in older adults? It is difficult to assess pain in older adults due to changes in pain perception, communication difficulties, and comorbidities that may mask or exacerbate pain.

Mr. Hannigan is a 48-year-old man who presents to the emergency department with a complaint of headache that has not been relieved in 3 days. He now complains of visual disturbance and an inability to concentrate.

1. Describe the key indications when taking the blood pressure: The key indications when taking the blood pressure include:

• The need to monitor for hypertension or hypotension.
• Assessment for cardiovascular disease risk factors.
• Evaluation of medication effectiveness.

2. Describe the correct cuff size for a patient: The correct cuff size for a patient should be selected based on the patient’s upper arm circumference to ensure an accurate reading.
3. What signs and symptoms beside an elevated blood pressure would you expect the patient to exhibit? Signs and symptoms beside an elevated