Don't Ignore Pain

Don't Ignore Pain

No one knows how much pain you are in but you. Tell your doctor or nurse when pain strikes, or if it comes back again after it goes away. Talk about your pain level throughout the course of your stay. 

Ask yourself, then share with your nurse:

  • Where does it hurt?
  • When does it hurt?
  • Does it keep you from doing things—like sleeping, dressing, eating?

Which words describe your pain?

  • aching
  • bloating
  • burning
  • comes and goes
  • constant
  • cramping
  • cutting
  • dull
  • numbing
  • pressing
  • pressure
  • pulling
  • radiating
  • searing
  • sharp
  • shooting
  • soreness
  • stabbing
  • throbbing
  • tightness

How bad is it on this pain scale?

You're the Expert on Your Pain

You may encounter many different pain management methods while in the hospital. Your pain will be managed by a multidisciplinary approach, including pain medication, relaxation, positioning and other interventions. Your doctor and nurse will discuss with you the best approach to manage your specific pain. Your nurse will discuss with you the effectiveness of interventions as well as pain management plans each shift.

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