Managing pain after coronary artery bypass surgery

Nurses are responsible for assessing patients' pain and intervening with modalities such as opioids. However, after coronary artery bypass surgery, patients experience moderate to severe pain and receive inadequate analgesia. These practices are problematic as unrelieved acute pain is harmful and may result in negative consequences that influence recovery. Consistent with the subjectivity and multidimensionality of pain, as described in Gate Control Theory, patients need to be involved as participants in their care where possible. Pain policies and education programs need to reflect current professional guidelines and be proactive in addressing staff and patient gaps in pain knowledge and misbeliefs.