PERCEPTION OF PAIN AS THE FIFTH VITAL SIGN IN NURSING CARE: A QUALITATIVE STUDY Nuriya, Saryono, Agis Taufik
Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jenderal Soedirman University, Purwokerto, Indonesia
Abstract
Background: Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience resulting from actual or potential tissue damage. It can be temporary or persistent, and inadequate pain management may cause physical complications, immune dysfunction, and delayed recovery. Pain also contributes to psychological problems such as stress, anxiety, and depression, and may increase the economic burden. Nurses play a crucial role in conducting pain assessments and ensuring effective pain management.
Objective: This study aimed to explore nurses^ perceptions and understanding of pain as the fifth vital sign to support accurate screening and appropriate interventions.
Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 11 participants. Data were analyzed thematically to capture nurses^ perceptions of pain as the fifth vital sign.
Results: Nurses^ perceptions of pain as the fifth vital sign were reflected in several dimensions: understanding the concept of pain, recognition of pain intensity, acknowledgment of individual variations in pain response, identification of factors influencing pain, approaches to pain evaluation, comprehensive strategies for pain management, and barriers to implementation. Pain was viewed not only as a subjective complaint but also as a clinical indicator of patient conditions, requiring regular and systematic monitoring.
Conclusion: Nurses perceived pain as a critical component of patient assessment, emphasizing its role as the fifth vital sign. This perception underscores the importance of continuous evaluation and holistic management strategies to address pain effectively in clinical practice.
