Post-Surgical Pain Case Studies

Pain is defined as “whatever the experiencing person says it is, existing whenever he or she says it does” (173). With the information provided in the scenario of Mr. Clark and Mrs. Wong, this writer believes Mr. Clark is experiencing the greatest amount of post-operative pain. The numerical pain rating scale provides supporting data due to Mr. Clark rating his pain as 8/10 and Mrs. Wong as 3/10. In addition to the numerical pain scale, a focused interview should be conducted. A focused interview will provide much needed, additional information as to the onset, location, duration, and characteristics of the pain and the patient can receive proper treatment in return (181).

Pain is individualized and no two people will experience or measure
A post-surgical complication known as neurovascular compromise is no exception to the rule. Neurovascular compromise is defined as impairment to the nerves or blood supply to any area (Merriam). When the blood supply is impaired, the patient will experience pain, which is disproportionate to the injury or surgical procedure and unrelieved by opioid analgesia (rch). Orthopedic surgery such as hip arthroplasty increases a patients risk for neurovascular compromise due to the complex nerve and vascular system which encompasses the hip structure. Nursing professionals should provide neurovascular checks every hour for the first 24 hours post injury, surgery, or cast placement, then every 4 hours for the next 48 hours (rch). Assessment should be increased in frequency if the patient’s status deviates from initial baseline. Proper assessment should include sensation, motor function, color, temperature, capillary refill, swelling, and pulses of the affected extremity. Without proper assessment, early recognition, and prompt treatment, the patient could experience permanent deficits, loss of the affected limb, or even death
The intended goals are to promote wellness in patients. An alternative method known as Reiki is a Japanese technique which promotes the body’s natural healing abilities through stress reduction and relaxation techniques (Holistic hlth). The healing process is carried out by a Reiki practitioner. The practitioner transfers energy to the patient by an actual laying on of hands (reikiorg). The healer restores the patient’s body physically and mentally (everyday). The Reiki technique is based on the idea that unseen life force energy flows through us and is the reason for our existence. When the life force energy is low is when individuals are most likely to be sick or stressed but if high then the individual is more likely to be healthy and happy (reiki.org). During a Rekik session, the healer attempts to unlock the energy channels to allow the patient to have a high life force. In return the patient feels more relaxed, has a less muscle tension and in return experiences less pain. Although Reiki is a simple and easy to use technique it is associated with spirituality which conflicts with the Catholic