Caring for a patient that has a high pain tolerance due to chronic pain
You are caring for a patient that has a high pain tolerance due to chronic pain and does not look like they are in pain. What would you do if they asked for more pain medication?
Sample Solution
- Acknowledge their pain. I would let the patient know that I understand that they are in pain, even if they don't look like it. I would also let them know that I am here to help them manage their pain.
- Assess their pain. I would ask the patient to rate their pain on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being no pain and 10 being the worst pain imaginable. I would also ask them to describe their pain in detail.
- Review their medication history. I would review the patient's medication history to see what pain medications they have been taking and how effective they have been.
Full Answer Section
- Consider other factors that could be affecting their pain. I would consider other factors that could be affecting the patient's pain, such as stress, anxiety, or depression.
- Make a plan to manage their pain. I would work with the patient to develop a plan to manage their pain. This plan could include medication, therapy, or other interventions.
- Reassure the patient. I would reassure the patient that I am committed to helping them manage their pain and that I will be there to support them.
- Be aware of the patient's individual pain threshold. This is the level of pain that the patient can tolerate before they start to feel discomfort.
- Be aware of the patient's medication history. This will help you to determine the best course of treatment for their pain.
- Be patient and understanding. Patients with chronic pain may have been dealing with their pain for a long time and may feel like they have been dismissed by other healthcare providers.
- Communicate with the patient. Let them know that you are there to help them and that you will listen to their concerns.
- Work with the patient to develop a pain management plan. This plan should be tailored to the patient's individual needs.
- Monitor the patient's pain levels. This will help you to ensure that they are getting the relief they need.
- Be aware of the risks of addiction and overdose. These are serious risks that should be taken into account when prescribing pain medication.