CE feature. Part 1. Neurophysiology of pain

This article focuses on the neurophysiology of pain to provide a background for nurses to understand the various ways in which the body's warning system functions. Although each client's pain experience is unique and is influenced by a combination of physical sensations and emotional responses, a basic understanding of pain is necessary for appropriate nursing interventions to be implemented. This article defines and explains types of pain and theories of pain as well as the roles of neurotransmitters and neuromodulators.