• To enhance your understanding of the causes and characteristics of neuropathic pain
• To increase your knowledge of the physiology and types of neuropathic pain
• To recognise the importance of undertaking a holistic assessment of neuropathic pain
Neuropathic pain results from damage to the nerves. It affects many in the general population, but its prevalence is higher in certain groups, for example those who have undergone certain procedures or systemic anti-cancer therapy and people with conditions such as diabetes mellitus, viral infections or central nervous system disorders. Regardless of the cause, neuropathic pain can have significant adverse effects on people’s quality of life, so nurses need to be able to conduct a holistic pain assessment that incorporates physical, emotional, social and spiritual aspects. This article explores the prevalence, characteristics and nursing assessment of neuropathic pain with the aim of improving nurses’ awareness, practice and care of people affected by this type of pain.
Nursing Standard. doi: 10.7748/ns.2023.e12138
Peer reviewThis article has been subject to external double-blind peer review and checked for plagiarism using automated software
Correspondence Conflict of interestNone declared
Galligan M (2023) Exploring the prevalence, characteristics and nursing assessment of neuropathic pain. Nursing Standard. doi: 10.7748/ns.2023.e12138
Published online: 29 August 2023
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