How should a nurse assess a patient’s pain level?

Using a standardized pain scale is the most effective approach for assessing a patient's pain level. Pain is a subjective experience that varies from person to person, making it essential to use a consistent method for evaluation. Standardized pain scales, such as the Numeric Rating Scale or the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale, provide patients with a clear way to communicate their level of pain.

These scales allow nurses to quantify pain, facilitating better communication regarding the intensity of discomfort. By assigning numbers or facial expressions to pain levels, nurses can assess changes over time, which aids in developing an appropriate pain management plan and monitoring its effectiveness.

While observing facial expressions can provide some insight into a patient's pain, this method lacks the precision and objectivity that a standardized scale offers. Relying solely on a patient’s medical history or checking vital signs may not provide a complete picture of pain, as these methods do not directly measure the patient's current pain experience. Thus, utilizing a standardized pain scale is the most reliable way to assess a patient's pain level comprehensively.