Pain as the 5th vital sign

• Who presented the idea of evaluating pain as a vital sign?

  1. James Campbell
• What was the purpose of elevating pain to a vital sign?

  To ensure proper evaluation and management
• What does the lack of consistent management of pain indicate?

  The complexity of assessing and managing pain
• What is the status of pain recognition and treatment in healthcare?

  It is still underrecognized and undertreated
• What organizations have set management standards for pain?

  Canadian Pain Society and RNAO
• How long has evidence documented inadequate pain management practices?

  More than 4 decades
• What alarming trend is observed in Canadian hospitals regarding post-surgery pain?

  Many patients are left in pain after surgery
• What percentage of patients report moderate-to-severe pain after surgical procedures?

  Up to 50%
• What are the implications of pain being considered the 5th vital sign?

  • Pain should be properly evaluated
  • Pain management should be prioritized
  • Highlights the need for consistent practices