Assessment and measurement of acute pain

Pain is a personal and individual experience. Pain assessment is a multidimensional process. A process is outlined that begins at admission and is systematically performed throughout the period of care. This process involves the patient in goal setting and selection of the instruments that will be used to assess the level of pain. Objective and subjective indicators of pain are described, but emphasis is on the patient's self-report as the major indicator of pain. Several instruments are described that help the patient and nurse to communicate more effectively. Using a variety of instruments allows the patient to select one that is most meaningful. Visual analog and verbal descriptor scales are described, as are how to use them in assessment of pain and evaluation of interventions. The emphasis is on assessment of the adult patient.