To assess left elbow pain, the nurse should move the extremity in the following directions:
1. Flexion: The nurse should bend the arm at the elbow joint, bringing the hand closer to the shoulder.
2. Extension: The nurse should straighten the arm at the elbow joint, moving the hand away from the shoulder.
3. Pronation: The nurse should rotate the arm so that the palm is facing down.
4. Supination: The nurse should rotate the arm so that the palm is facing up.
By moving the extremity in these directions, the nurse can assess the range of motion of the elbow joint and identify any areas of pain or discomfort.