Pain my cause a patient to take shallow breaths and refrain from coughing, which can lead to pneumonia. And being an a respirator is terrible in itself. Pain may keep a patient from moving about, and a host of problems can arise from being in bed too long. Blood clots in the leg can break free and cause strokes and heart attacks. Digestion slows affecting g absorption or nutrients from food.
Unmanaged pain creates fear and anxiety.
Such stress can depress the immune system and make the patient more susceptible to other infections including tumors. The US Agency for Health Care Policy and Research suggested these guidelines. An individualized pain care plan should be developed prior to surgery. Pains should be reassessed as necessary Both drug and non drug therapies should be utilized. Taking care of a patient costs money.