How Does Underreporting of Pain Affect Patient Care?
Underreporting of pain can have several negative consequences:
1. Inadequate Pain Management: If nurses are not aware of the severity of a patient’s pain, they may not administer adequate pain relief, leading to prolonged suffering. 2. Compromised Recovery: Untreated pain can impede recovery, reduce mobility, and increase the risk of complications like deep vein thrombosis or pneumonia. 3. Decreased Quality of Life: Persistent pain can lead to depression, anxiety, and a general decline in the patient's quality of life. 4. Increased Healthcare Costs: Poorly managed pain can result in longer hospital stays and increased use of healthcare resources.
