Pain Assessment on the NCLEX
OPQRST or PQRST mnemonic, pain scales, expected vs concerning.
Pain assessment is systematic. NCLEX tests the components.
OPQRST
Onset, Provoking factors, Quality, Radiation, Severity, Timing.
Scales
Numeric (0-10) for verbal adults. Wong-Baker faces for kids 3+. FLACC for nonverbal kids. CPOT or BPS for ICU/intubated.
When concerning
Sudden severe pain. Out-of-proportion pain (think compartment syndrome, ischemia). New pain with vital sign changes.
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