Chronic pain is a complex and pervasive health challenge affecting millions worldwide. Managing chronic pain effectively requires a multidisciplinary approach, and nurses play a critical role on the front lines of patient care. As a pain management specialist, Jordan Sudberg emphasizes that nursing care is not only about administering medications but also about holistic assessment, patient education, and emotional support.
In this article, we explore the essential role of nursing in chronic pain management and highlight best practices recommended by Dr. Sudberg to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Understanding Chronic Pain Through a Nursing Lens
Chronic pain persists beyond normal tissue healing time—usually over three months—and can be due to conditions like arthritis, neuropathy, fibromyalgia, or previous injuries. Unlike acute pain, it often fluctuates and can have physical, emotional, and psychological components.
“Nurses are uniquely positioned to see the full picture of a patient’s pain experience,” says Dr. Sudberg. “Because they spend more time with patients, nurses can observe subtle changes, assess pain patterns, and identify factors contributing to worsening symptoms.”
This comprehensive view allows nurses to advocate for individualized care plans that go beyond one-size-fits-all solutions.
The Nursing Assessment: Foundation for Effective Pain Management
Jordan Sudberg stresses that thorough nursing assessment is the cornerstone of managing chronic pain. This assessment involves:
- Pain intensity and quality: Using validated tools like the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) or the McGill Pain Questionnaire
- Functional impact: Understanding how pain affects daily activities and mobility
- Emotional status: Screening for anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbances linked to pain
- Medication history: Reviewing current analgesics, their efficacy, and side effects
- Psychosocial factors: Considering social support, coping mechanisms, and stressors
“Nurses help bridge the gap between what patients feel and what providers understand,” Dr. Sudberg explains. “Their detailed assessments ensure that care is tailored and dynamic.”
Patient Education and Empowerment
Managing chronic pain is as much about knowledge as it is about medication. Dr. Sudberg highlights that nurses have a vital role in educating patients on:
- Pain physiology: Helping patients understand why pain occurs and how it affects the nervous system
- Medication use and side effects: Ensuring patients know how and when to take medications safely
- Non-pharmacological strategies: Teaching techniques like relaxation exercises, heat/cold therapy, and pacing activities to avoid flare-ups
- Lifestyle modifications: Encouraging regular gentle exercise, nutrition, and sleep hygiene
“Empowerment through education reduces fear and anxiety,” says Dr. Sudberg. “It also fosters active participation, which is critical for long-term pain control.”
Holistic Nursing Interventions
Beyond medication administration, nurses implement holistic strategies to improve comfort and function. Dr. Sudberg advocates for interventions such as:
- Cognitive-behavioral support: Assisting patients to develop healthier thought patterns related to pain
- Mind-body therapies: Incorporating guided imagery, mindfulness, or breathing techniques
- Physical support: Collaborating with physical therapists to encourage safe movement
- Advocacy: Coordinating with interdisciplinary teams to adjust treatment plans as needed
These approaches recognize the biopsychosocial nature of chronic pain, targeting emotional and social aspects as well as physical symptoms.
Challenges Nurses Face in Chronic Pain Management
Despite their essential role, nurses often encounter barriers such as:
- Limited time for comprehensive assessments in busy clinical settings
- Stigma and misunderstanding about chronic pain conditions
- Balancing pain relief with opioid stewardship amid concerns about addiction
- Emotional fatigue from caring for patients with persistent suffering
Dr. Sudberg emphasizes the importance of ongoing training and institutional support to empower nurses to overcome these challenges effectively.
Collaboration: The Heart of Successful Pain Management
According to Jordan Sudberg, chronic pain management requires a team effort, with nurses serving as critical connectors between patients, physicians, therapists, and counselors.
“Nurses translate medical plans into daily reality,” he says. “Their communication skills and patient advocacy ensure treatments are practical and compassionate.”
By fostering strong interdisciplinary collaboration, nurses help optimize care pathways and improve patients’ quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Chronic pain management is complex and multifaceted, but with dedicated nursing care, patients can find relief and regain function. As Jordan Sudberg highlights, nurses do more than manage symptoms—they provide hope, education, and personalized support.
For nurses working in pain management, the mission is clear: blend clinical expertise with empathy to guide patients on their journey toward healing.