Pain assessment tools standardize measurement of pain intensity, location, quality, and impact to guide appropriate intervention and evaluate effectiveness. Common tools include: Numeric Rating Scale (0-10); Visual Analog Scale; Wong-Baker FACES for children and non-verbal patients; FLACC scale for infants; and PAINAD for dementia patients. Comprehensive assessment also includes: characteristics (sharp, dull, throbbing); aggravating/alleviating factors; timing; and effect on function. Nurses use these tools to: establish baseline; monitor changes; guide analgesic administration; and evaluate relief. Documentation should include pain score before and after intervention. Regular assessment is essential as fifth vital sign. Cultural factors influence pain expression. For chronic pain, additional assessment of psychological and social factors is needed. Effective pain management improves outcomes, patient satisfaction, and functional recovery. Nurses advocate for adequate pain relief while monitoring for side effects of analgesics.

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Zambia

• loveness Phiri – 1084 pts

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• Positive and Negative Symptoms
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• Antipsychotic Medications
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