Domain 12. Comfort
Class 1. Physical comfort
Diagnostic Code: 00133
Nanda label: Chronic pain
Diagnostic focus: Pain
Nursing Diagnosis Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is an issue that affects many individuals, regardless of age, gender, and background. Nursing diagnosis for chronic pain can help identify the right treatment plans so that patients can find some relief. We will look at what nursing diagnosis for chronic pain entails, including the definition and defining characteristics of NANDA’s nursing diagnosis. Additionally, we will explore associated conditions, at-risk populations, suggested alternative NANDA nursing diagnoses, practical usage tips, and a NOC Outcomes and NIC Interventions nurses can use in their assessment and evaluation measures.
NANDA Nursing Diagnosis Definition
The North American Nursing Diagnosis Association (NANDA) explains that nursing diagnosis is “a clinical judgment about individual, family and community responses to actual or potential health problems and life processes.” Nursing diagnosis for chronic pain is established when nurses assess the patient’s individual circumstances and consider the implications of any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the persistent pain. The primary goal of the nursing diagnosis is to create the most appropriate plan of care so the patient can achieve relief, thereby restoring quality of life.
Defining Characteristics List
NANDA nursing diagnosis for chronic pain typically includes some subjective and objective characteristics. Subjective qualities can include pain, dyspnea, sleep disturbances, poor appetite, fatigue and decrease in activity. Objective characteristics often point to a physical cause, such as muscle tension or spasms, deformity, lack of range of motion and decreased sensation. All of these criteria are used to help nurses assess the seriousness of the patient’s condition and recommend appropriate treatment solutions.
Related Factors
When assessing a patient’s case for chronic pain, related factors should also be considered. Some of the more common related factors that may be present include anxiety and stress, a lack of knowledge about proper pain management, or inappropriate lifestyle changes. Chronic pain may also stem from an old injury, unresolved illness, or physiological response to certain medications. It is important to understand all related factors so that an effective and comprehensive plan of care can be developed.
At Risk Population
There is no one size fits all when it comes to nursing diagnosis for chronic pain. Certain populations are more susceptible to experiencing this particular condition, however. Older adults tend to report higher levels of chronic pain while younger populations may experience shorter bouts of severe pain. Individuals facing psychological issues, such as depression and anxiety, can find comfort in therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, although those involved in high-stress professions may have difficulty managing the continuous pain levels.
Associated Conditions
Many medical conditions can be associated and may contribute to chronic pain. For instance, conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and cancer can lead to a sensation of discomfort and pain, both acute and chronic. Diseases limitation of mobility, such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, are also known contributors to chronic pain. Neurological conditions, headaches, and back pain can all lead to chronic symptoms as well.
Suggestions of Use
Nurses can use the nursing diagnosis for chronic pain to help determine the best plan of care to manage and reduce pain. Exercise and physical therapy are two of the more common approaches to treatment. Additionally, educational interventions, such as teaching the patient self-management techniques, may prove beneficial. Cognitive therapies, such as relaxation training and meditation, can be used in tandem with medication to help compassionately address chronic pain. Nurses can also recommend activity modifications and physical activity options, as well as suggest lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or losing weight.
Suggested Alternative NANDA Nursing Diagnoses
Often times, the nursing diagnosis for chronic pain is inadequate other alternative NANDA nursing diagnoses should also be explored. Alternative diagnoses such as Risk for Injury, Acute Pain, Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity, and Deficient Knowledge can all have a possible role in helping patients cope with chronic pain. Depending on the underlying causes of the patient’s condition, one or more of these diagnoses may be applicable and should be considered in the treatment plan.
Usage Tips
It is also important for nurses to understand the differences between acute and chronic pain, as symptoms can vary greatly. Nurses should be aware of the specific forms of assessment techniques and behatioral observations they can utilize to appropriately diagnose a patient’s chronic pain. Additionally, they should become familiar with published guidelines and evidence-based resources to ensure they make the best possible decision when determining the plan of care.
NOC Outcomes
The Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) system provides a set of standardized outcomes that nurses can use to assess the effectiveness of their intervention. These outcomes can be assessed at admission and throughout the course of the patient’s care. Examples of relevant NOC outcomes include Functional Ability, Pain Level Reduction, Sleep Quality, Comfort Level, Activity Tolerance and Emotional Well-Being.
Evaluation Objectives and Criteria
The evaluation of nursing diagnosis for chronic pain should include an assessment of the patient’s current pain level, statements about any other areas of discomfort, and any new symptoms that have been noted. In addition, a description of any limitations on activities of daily living should be provided. This can include an assessment of the patient’s mental status, physical abilities, and the ability to communicate effectively. Health care professionals should also take into consideration the patient’s home environment, family dynamics, and ability to participate in activities.
NIC Interventions
The Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC) system provides a set of standard interventions that can be used to guide nursing practice. Examples of relevant NIC interventions include Pain Management, Activity Promotion, Education, Fluid and Nutritional Support, and Self Care Deficit Management. These interventions offer nurses guidance on how to provide optimal care to patients suffering from chronic pain.
Nursing Activities
The nursing activities related to nursing diagnosis for chronic pain will depend on the treatment plan the nurse creates for the patient. Monitoring the patient’s vital signs, providing regular pain assessments, administering medication, and developing an appropriate exercise regimen are all part of this plan. Other nursing activities may include providing patient and family education, developing strategies to cope with pain, creating discharge plans, and offering support to the patient and family.
Conclusion
Nursing diagnosis for chronic pain should focus on providing relief, reducing symptoms, and restoring quality of life. To achieve this, nurses must evaluate the patient’s individual circumstances, along with any related factors, to develop a comprehensive plan of care based on NANDA nursing diagnosis. Through the implementation of appropriate interventions and nursing activities, nurses can offer the necessary support and relief to those suffering from chronic pain.
5 FAQs
1. What does nursing diagnosis for chronic pain involve?
Nursing diagnosis for chronic pain involves understanding the patient’s individual circumstances and evaluating any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to the persistent pain. The primary goal is to create the most appropriate plan of care, based on NANDA nursing diagnosis, so that the patient can achieve relief and restore quality of life.
2. What type of criteria do nurses assess when diagnosing chronic pain?
Nurses typically assess a combination of subjective and objective criteria when diagnosing chronic pain. Subjective qualities can include pain, dyspnea, sleep disturbances, poor appetite, fatigue and decrease in activity. Objective characteristics often point to a physical cause, such as muscle tension or spasms, deformity, lack of range of motion and decreased sensation.
3. Does the nursing diagnosis for chronic pain differ for different populations?
Yes, the nursing diagnosis for chronic pain can differ for different populations. Older adults tend to report higher levels of chronic pain while younger populations may experience shorter bouts of severe pain. Individuals facing psychological issues, such as depression and anxiety, can find comfort in therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy.
4. What type of interventions are used to treat chronic pain?
Interventions such as exercise, physical therapy, educational interventions, cognitive therapies, activity modifications, lifestyle changes and medication may all be used to treat chronic pain. The selection of interventions depends on the individual’s unique circumstances and personal preferences.
5. What type of outcomes are used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment?
The Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) system provides a set of standardized outcomes that can be used to assess the effectiveness of treatment. Examples can include functional ability, pain level reduction, sleep quality, comfort level, activity tolerance and emotional well-being. Additionally, the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC) system can provide a set of standard interventions to assist nurses with their treatment plans.
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