Assessing and managing pain in a primary care setting

Pain is experienced by most people throughout the lifespan; it is complex, highly personal and subjective, with physical, psychological and social factors informing the pain experience. Pain can manifest in acute or chronic forms, depending on whether it is associated with damage to the individual or damage to the nervous system, and is often described in terms of function and capacity. Effective pain management can improve a person's quality of life and reduce the impact of this experience on their independence and capacity to contribute to society as a whole. General practice nurses play a key role in supporting people living with long-term conditions that may contribute to developing pain in the community. They can identify and offer support, direct these individuals to other members of the multidisciplinary team or advise referral to chronic pain services. This article considers the nature of pain, pain assessment and management, the importance of recognition and the role of the practice nurse in assessing and managing pain using an holistic approach.