For years, patients thought that pain was something they “just had to put up with.” But with current treatments, that is no longer true. Today, you can work with nurses and doctors to prevent or relieve pain. EIRMC practices the latest methods for preventing and managing pain.
Before your surgery, ask your doctor or nurse what to expect.
- Will there be much pain afterwards?
- Where will the pain occur?
- How long is the pain likely to last?
Being prepared will help put you in control. When your pain is controlled, you get many benefits:
- Enjoy greater comfort while you heal.
- Start walking and doing breathing exercises so that you can get your strength back faster.
- Feel better sooner after surgery.
- Avoid such problems as blood clots and pneumonia.
- Leave the hospital sooner.
We want you to ask for pain relief before pain becomes a problem. Talk to your doctor or nurse about pain-relief options and help them assess your pain. Tell them if your pain is not relieved and if you have worries about taking pain medication. Both drug and non-drug treatments can be successful in helping prevent and control pain. You, your doctor, and your nurse will decide which one(s) are right for you.
