Acute pain Managemnt Flashcards
(19 cards)
What is acute pain?
A sudden onset of pain that typically lasts less than 3 to 6 months
What is the biological purpose of acute pain?
It warns the body of harm and typically resolves as the underlying cause heals
What are the goals of acute pain management?
- Relieve suffering
- Facilitate function
- Enhance recovery
- Satisfy patients
What complications can arise from ineffective acute pain management?
- Delayed healing
- Sleep disruption
- Emotional distress
- Transition to chronic pain
What is the optimal strategy for acute pain control?
Multimodal therapy to increase efficacy, reduce side effects of therapy, and minimize the need for opioids
List some common causes of acute pain.
- Injury or Trauma
- Surgical Procedures
- Infections
- Inflammation
- Muscle Strain or Overuse
What are the typical symptoms of acute pain?
- Sharp or Stabbing Sensation
- Localized Pain
- Swelling or Redness
- Increased Sensitivity
- Reduced Mobility
- Muscle Spasms
What is the PQRST mnemonic used for?
To assess acute pain by evaluating Onset, Location, Duration, Characteristics, and Aggravating/Relieving Factors
What does the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) measure?
Patients rate their pain on a scale from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst imaginable pain)
What are the categories of the Functional Activity Scale (FAS)?
- A (no limitation due to pain)
- B (mild limitation)
- C (significant limitation)
What are some non-pharmacological interventions for managing acute pain?
- Physical Therapies: Heat/cold application, massage, exercise
- Psychological Therapies: Cognitive-behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, mindfulness
What does the WHO Analgesic Ladder suggest for mild pain management?
Start with non-opioids (e.g., paracetamol or NSAIDs)
What is the recommended approach for managing severe pain according to the WHO Analgesic Ladder?
Use strong opioids (e.g., morphine), possibly in combination with non-opioids
What is the purpose of multimodal pain management?
To enhance pain relief and reduce side effects by combining medications with different mechanisms of action
What are examples of non-opioid analgesics?
- Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, diclofenac)
What are the potential side effects of weak opioids?
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Constipation
What should be monitored when administering strong opioids?
- Respiratory depression
- Sedation
- Potential for dependence
What are adjuvant medications used for?
To treat neuropathic pain