Phantom limb pain: the ghost that haunts the amputee.
Phantom limb pain is a potential complication for all amputees. Current theories consider peripheral, CNS, and psychologic causes, along with other combinations of factors. Treatment modalities include pharmacologic and neurosurgical treatment, psychologic support, and family involvement. Through preoperative teaching, the nurse can help prospective amputees through the grieving process. In addition, the nurse's initial assessment can help identify predictors for phantom limb pain.
Rounseville
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D006801:Humans; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010591:Phantom Limb / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000451:nursing* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D012307:Risk Factors