Nurses use various methods to assess symptoms, including:
Patient Interviews: Directly asking patients about their symptoms, using open-ended questions to gather detailed information. Observation: Observing the patient for any signs of discomfort or distress. Assessment Tools: Utilizing standardized tools such as pain scales, anxiety inventories, and quality of life instruments to quantify symptoms. Vital Signs Monitoring: Regularly checking vital signs to detect any physiological changes that may indicate worsening symptoms.