ABSTRACT
The prerequisite for good pain management is a full and comprehensive assessment and history. An essential aid to pain assessment is the family. It is imperative that family views are sought and taken into account. The patient may not wish to be seen as complaining or weak; therefore, pain may be under-reported. It is important to ask if the individual is experiencing different types of pain, as they may well have more than one. Equally, the pain experienced might not be directly related to the cancer, although it is important to address all pain. Rapid increase in pain levels may be experienced. This often occurs during the final stages of life, and is frightening for the patient and family, often causing feelings of anxiety and panic. Analgesia may need to be increased rapidly, especially as the situation can change within the hour. Oral doses for breakthrough pain can be offered every 60-90 minutes as appropriate.
