The George Washington University Hospital is committed to promoting your comfort and well-being. There are many diseases and surgical procedures that can cause pain. If you are experiencing pain:
- Ask your doctor or nurse what to expect regarding pain and pain management.
- Discuss pain relief options with your doctor or nurse.
- Work with your doctor and nurse to develop a plan for managing your pain.
- Don’t wait—ask for pain relief when the pain begins! Most medications take a while to work.
- Tell your doctor or nurse if your pain is not relieved.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for medication to relieve your pain—taking medication will not make you an “addict”. Effective pain management is essential to the healing process.