ABSTRACT
Clients and patients in all healthcare settings experience pain and discomfort,
whether it be physical, emotional or spiritual. Studies suggest that some 72 per cent
of hospital inpatients are in pain at any one time (Brook et al. 2002). Furthermore,
7.8 million people – or one in seven of the UK population – have chronic pain
(Chronic Pain Policy Coalition 2007). Managing pain and promoting comfort are
therefore essential skills in nursing practice.
