Final answer:
A patient appropriate for step 3 of the WHO Pain Relief Ladder would be one who has severe pain, often rated as 7-9 on pain assessment scales, and whose pain is not controlled by step 2 medications.
Step-by-step explanation:
The WHO Pain Relief Ladder is a guideline designed to address pain management, with a particular focus on cancer pain. Step 3 of the ladder is reserved for patients experiencing severe pain, typically rated as 7-9 out of 10 on pain assessment scales such as the Mosby pain rating scale. This step involves the use of strong opioid medications, such as morphine, oxycodone, or fentanyl. Patients eligible for step 3 are those whose pain remains inadequately controlled with step 2 medications (which include weak opioids and non-opioid analgesics) and who report a high level of pain.
The stepwise approach ensures a progressive and individualized response to pain, tailoring treatment to the intensity of the patient's pain experience. Step 3 interventions aim to provide effective relief for patients facing severe pain, enhancing their overall quality of life during the course of illness, especially in the context of cancer-related pain.