title: Evidence-based practice part 1: pain definitions, pathophysiologic mechanisms, and theories.
abstract: Evidence-based practice consists of using research evidence to validate patient care. A body of evidence exists on pain mechanisms and pain management; however, patients continue to experience unrelieved pain. This 3-part series on pain will explore evidence in pain theories, pathophysiological mechanisms, instruments to measure pain, and how to manage pain in PACU patients.
authors.affiliation: Department of Family Medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City 66160, USA.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Summers
mesh_terms: D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D009619:Nociceptors / Q000502:physiology*; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000451:nursing / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013527:Perioperative Nursing