Question

A nurse is assessing a patient with chronic pain. What clinical indicators should the nurse expect the patient to exhibit? (Select all that apply.)

1) Dilated pupils
2) Variable breathing patterns
3) Gradual onset
4) Recurrent in nature
5) Pressured speech

Answer 1

Clinical indicators that a nurse should expect a patient with chronic pain to exhibit include variable breathing patterns, gradual onset, and recurrent nature of the pain.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assessing a patient with chronic pain, the nurse should expect the patient to exhibit a variety of clinical indicators. These indicators can include:

• Variable breathing patterns: Chronic pain can cause changes in breathing, such as shallow breathing or rapid breathing, as the body tries to cope with the pain.
• Gradual onset: Chronic pain typically develops slowly over time rather than appearing suddenly.
• Recurrent in nature: Chronic pain often comes and goes, with periods of relief followed by flare-ups of pain.

It is important to note that dilated pupils and pressured speech are not usually associated with chronic pain.