Vol. 1, Issue 2, Part A (2018)
Pain as a disease: Pain management, treatment, and nursing interventions-an updated review
Author(s):
Mohammed Salem Alshammari, Khalid Mohammed Aljohani, Mohammed Thamr Almutairi, Raed Mohammed Alomair, Fahad Abdulaziz Altuwaijri, Abdullah Jalawi Aldakhil and Sultan Safah A Alharbi
Abstract:
Background: Pain, historically perceived as a protective biological mechanism, has evolved into a complex concept encompassing both acute and chronic dimensions. Chronic pain, distinguished by its persistence beyond normal healing times, affects millions globally, significantly impacting quality of life, mental health, and socioeconomic stability. However, its recognition as a distinct disease remains contentious.
Aim: This review examines the evolving understanding of pain as a disease, its implications for treatment and management, and the essential role of nursing interventions in addressing chronic pain conditions.
Methods: The article explores historical perspectives, contemporary debates, and advancements in pain classification. It integrates evidence from neuroimaging studies, pathological investigations, and clinical practices to analyze the multifaceted nature of chronic pain. Discussions extend to pharmacological strategies and the significance of nursing interventions.
Results: Evidence supports chronic pain as a pathological state characterized by neurophysiological alterations, including neural reorganization and central sensitization. These changes manifest in diverse chronic pain syndromes, complicating its classification under a unified etiologic framework. Pharmacological management strategies, including analgesics and adjuvants, are crucial yet insufficient alone. Nursing interventions, emphasizing holistic care, patient education, and psychosocial support, are pivotal in comprehensive pain management.
Conclusion: The classification of chronic pain as a disease remains debated, hindered by its complexity and absence of a definitive scientific framework. Nonetheless, its profound impact on individuals and healthcare systems necessitates recognition and tailored interventions. Bridging gaps in pain classification and integrating multidisciplinary approaches can advance treatment outcomes, improve patient quality of life, and enhance healthcare delivery.
Pages: 58-64 | 280 Views 59 Downloads
How to cite this article:
Mohammed Salem Alshammari, Khalid Mohammed Aljohani, Mohammed Thamr Almutairi, Raed Mohammed Alomair, Fahad Abdulaziz Altuwaijri, Abdullah Jalawi Aldakhil and Sultan Safah A Alharbi. Pain as a disease: Pain management, treatment, and nursing interventions-an updated review. Int. J. Adv. Community Med. 2018;1(2):58-64. DOI: https://doi.org/10.33545/comed.2018.v1.i2a.355
