Integrating nursing and emergency care in non-pharmacological management of chronic pain: Advancing holistic patient care
https://doi.org/10.29332/triss.v2n1.81
Keywords:
chronic pain, non-pharmacological interventions, nurses, emergency care, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, holistic care, patient-centered practicesAbstract
Background: Chronic pain affects millions worldwide, significantly impacting physical, mental, and social well-being. Traditional pharmaceutical therapies often pose challenges such as dependency, adverse side effects, and high costs, while providing limited relief for many patients. Non-pharmacological approaches, including physical therapies, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and relaxation techniques, have demonstrated effectiveness in managing chronic pain. Nurses and emergency care professionals are central to implementing these treatments due to their direct, frequent interactions with patients and their ability to deliver patient-centered care in acute and ongoing settings. Aim: This paper examines how nurses and emergency care teams can manage chronic pain using non-pharmacological therapies. It evaluates the effectiveness of these strategies, explores their integration into nursing and emergency practices, and identifies barriers and areas for improvement. Methods: A comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature was conducted using databases such as Scopus, CINAHL, and PubMed. The analysis included studies focusing on non-pharmacological therapies led or supported by nurses and emergency teams. Key variables examined included the types of therapies employed, patient outcomes (e.g., pain relief and quality of life improvements), and associated nursing and emergency care practices. Results: Findings indicate that non-pharmacological interventions significantly improve pain severity, mental health, and functional outcomes. Nurses and emergency professionals contribute to these results through continuous monitoring, personalized care plans, and patient education. However, barriers such as inadequate training, limited resources, and inconsistent institutional support hinder broader adoption of these practices. Conclusion: Nurses and emergency care teams play a vital role in the success of non-pharmacological chronic pain management. Addressing systemic barriers, enhancing training programs, and improving resource availability can expand the reach and effectiveness of these interventions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing holistic care practices.
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