Assessment and Management of Acute Pain. Assessment Algorithm.

[see Treatment algorithm #14, "Somatic Pain"]

[see Treatment algorithm #15, "Visceral Pain"]

[see Treatment algorithm #16, "Neuropathic Pain"]

Download a printable copy in PDF format.

Source: Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement (ICSI). Assessment and management of acute pain. Bloomington (MN): Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement (ICSI); 2008 Mar. 58 p. Assessment and Management of Acute Pain Assessment Algorithm Patient has pain or is likely to have pain. A A = Annotation Critical first steps: *detailed history. *focused physical exam. A Pain assessment. A Is pain due to an easily reversible etiology? First priority: treat identified cause of pain Has pain persisted greater than 6 weeks? A See ICSI Chronic Pain guideline and/or consider referral to pain specialist Is source of pain: Headache? Low back? Ankle sprain? Chest pain (ACS)? Dyspepsia? See related ICSI guideline Determine mechanism(s) of pain (patient may experience more than one type of pain). A Somatic pain. Patient reports localized pin prick, sharp or stabbing pain (see Treatment algorithm #14, Somatic Pain). A Visceral pain. Patient reports generalized ache or pressure (see Treatment algorithm #15, Visceral Pain). A Neuropathic pain Patient reports radiating or specific burning, tingling, or lancinating pain (see Treatment algorithm #16, Neuropathic Pain). A All copyrights are reserved by the Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement, Inc.