Pain Management
Santa Rosa Medical Center is committed to providing the most effective pain relief possible to every patient. Effective pain relief does not mean you will have no pain- it means we will be working with you and your doctor to keep you as comfortable as possible.
What are the benefits of Pain Control?
Pain control can help you have greater comfort during recovery, which may help you to get well faster. With less pain, you can start walking, do your breathing exercises and get your strength back more quickly. You may even leave the hospital sooner.
What are your Pain Control Options?
1. Prevention- It is often easier to prevent severe pain than to relieve it. Break the pain cycle early on. Report it as soon as possible so that staff can help you manage your pain.
2. Medication- Medication works better if it is taken around the clock. For some people an Epidural or Patient Controlled Analgesia (PCA) pump is used. Ask the nurse about your medication and how it will be given.
3. Non-Drug Methods- Pain can be relieved through non-drug methods. A few of the most common methods effective for mild to moderate pain are:
- Heat/cold – Ask your nurse whether this is appropriate for your pain.
- Mental Imaging – Think peaceful, relaxing thoughts while breathing.
- Relaxation – Focus on breathing slowly and deeply.
- Massage – Ask a family member to massage your sore muscles.
- Positioning – Change your position frequently; use pillows for support.
- Music – Bring a battery operated tape or CD player to the hospital.
How can you help?
Pain is a very personal experience and is different for everyone. Only you know what you are experiencing. Tell us:
- When the pain first started
- Where you feel the pain
- What makes the pain better; what makes the pain worse
- How intense the pain is (Scale of 0 to 10)
You will be asked about the amount of pain you can tolerate in order to walk, eat and sleep. This is known as your “comfort goal.” You will be asked to state your comfort goal and your present pain intensity using a number between 0 and 10 (0 meaning no pain, 10 meaning the worst possible pain). Using the same scale each time, you tell your doctor or nurse how well your pain is being controlled.
Helpful Links
Directions
Phone Directory
Find a Physician
Find a Career
Pay Your Hospital Bill Online!
Billing and Insurance
Patient Pre-Registration
ER Wait Times