Pain as the 5th Vital Sign

Pain is often referred to as the 5th vital sign, alongside the traditional vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure. This term emphasizes the importance of assessing pain levels in patients, as they can indicate underlying health issues or the effectiveness of treatment. By routinely evaluating pain, healthcare providers can better understand a patient's condition, improve their quality of life, and tailor interventions to manage discomfort. Recognizing pain as a vital sign encourages more comprehensive care that acknowledges the subjective experience of pain in overall health assessments.