title: A multidisciplinary approach to chronic pain.
abstract: Chronic pain often is frustrating to nurses and patients, since many times it has not been responsive to traditional medical approaches. The purpose of this article is to discuss the chronic pain syndrome and the role of nursing within a multidisciplinary chronic pain rehabilitation program designed to return the patient to a functional lifestyle. The purpose and rationale for each treatment modality within the pain management program is described, although the treatment plans are individualized for every patient. Nurses play a crucial role, because they are the only professionals who are constantly available to the patient. Nurses collect data and continually assess the patient to develop comprehensive nursing care plans. In this intensive educational program, nurses also assist in teaching the patient positive health practices to control the pain. Further evaluations of these chronic pain rehabilitation programs are needed.
authors.forename: J M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Simon
mesh_terms: D000698:Analgesia / Q000379:methods*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D006266:Health Education; D006801:Humans; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D010146:Pain / Q000451:nursing / Q000534:rehabilitation*