Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What is a key strategy for pain management in patients with chronic unexplained pain?

1. Increasing medication dosages

2. Focusing solely on physical causes

3. Developing cognitive skills for pain management

4. Avoiding discussions about pain

The correct answer is: Developing cognitive skills for pain management

Cognitive skills development is essential in managing chronic unexplained pain because it involves teaching patients how to recognize and alter their pain perceptions and responses. This approach can empower patients to manage their pain more effectively by using strategies like mindfulness, cognitive restructuring, and coping skills. It emphasizes the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of pain, which are often significant in chronic conditions where traditional physical treatments may be insufficient. By fostering these cognitive skills, patients can learn to understand their pain in a new light, potentially reducing the intensity of their suffering and improving their overall quality of life. This strategy promotes a holistic approach to pain management, integrating both psychological and physiological perspectives, which is vital when dealing with chronic pain that may not have a clear physical cause.