Introduction
Pain management is a critical aspect of nursing care that affects not only physical health but also emotional and psychological well-being. Nurses are uniquely positioned to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care by combining evidence-based pharmacological treatments with holistic and integrative approaches. These may include non-pharmacological therapies such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness, physical modalities, and complementary practices that honor patient preferences and promote healing from multiple angles.
???? Case Study
Mr. James Thompson is a 68-year-old patient recovering from abdominal surgery. He reports severe post-operative pain (8/10) and appears anxious and restless. His current pain management plan includes IV opioids every 4 hours as needed. Despite receiving medication, he continues to experience high pain levels and frequently requests additional relief.
Mr. Thompson shares several concerns: he feels “foggy” and constipated from the opioids, fears that side effects may delay his recovery, and expresses frustration that his pain and emotional needs are not being fully acknowledged. He also mentions that prior to surgery, he successfully managed his chronic arthritis pain at home using heat therapy and meditation.
???? Discussion Prompt
Choose ONE of the following four topic areas and respond thoroughly:
Identifying and Assessing Pain Types
What type) of pain might Mr. Thompson be experiencing, and how would you perform a thorough pain assessment?
Integrating Holistic Pain Management Strategies
Which holistic and evidence-based non-pharmacological interventions could be included in his care plan, and how would you implement them?
Nursing Advocacy for Individualized, Holistic Care
How can nurses advocate for pain management that addresses both physical and emotional patient needs?
Evaluating Integrative and Pharmacological Approaches
What are the advantages and limitations of combining integrative therapies with medication in post-operative care?