1. Comfort Level
2. Medication Response
3. Pain Control
NIC Interventions (Nursing Interventions Classification)
Suggested NIC Labels
1. Analgesic Administration
2. Conscious Sedation
3. Pain Management
Ongoing Assessment
• Monitor for changes in general condition that may herald need for
change in pain relief method. For example, a PCA patient
becomes confused and cannot manage PCA, or a successful
modality ceases to provide adequate pain relief, as in
relaxation breathing.
• Anticipate need for pain relief. One can most effectively deal
with pain by preventing it. Early intervention may decrease
the total amount of analgesic required.
• Respond immediately to complaint of pain. In the midst of
painful experiences a patient’s perception of time may become
distorted. Prompt responses to complaints may result in
decreased anxiety in the patient. Demonstrated concern for
patient’s welfare and comfort fosters the development of a
trusting relationship.
1. Dedicate use of IV line for PCA only; consult pharmacist before mixing drug with
narcotic being infused. IV incompatibilities are possible.
If patient is receiving epidural analgesia: