1.1 explain the importance of a holistic approach to managing pain and discomfort
There is more to taking care of an individual than just the physical needs which have caused them to need your care. A holistic approach is about taking care of their mental, emotional, social and even spiritual needs as well to ease their mind and alleviate any worries or negative feelings that they may have during this time.
1.2 describe different approaches to alleviate pain and minimise discomfort There is various different ways to alleviate pain, the most obvious been drug use, such as those devised to do just so, i.e. paracetamol, codeine, ibuprofen and morphine etc. these would usually be in a tablet or liquid form or be administered via a IV drip. However there are also alternative methods that can be used to minimise pain and discomfort such hot water bottles, massage and light exercises, alternative agreed upon therapies such as reflexology or acupuncture. You could even try chatting, reading and doing the crossword to distract your mind by giving yourself something else to focus on.
1.3 outline agreed ways of working that relate to managing pain and discomfort Before using any form of pain relief, the individual will be required to undergo an assessment to make sure it is a suitable approach. You also need to make sure you follow their care plan, all polices and procedures and take any necessary precautions.
2.1 describe how pain and discomfort may affect an individual’s well-being and communication If an individual is in a lot of pain or discomfort then it could affect them as a whole. They could become angry and frustrated and cause unreasonable behaviour that it not normally witnessed within that individual on a daily basis. Depending upon the reason for the pain, it could also affect their eating and drinking and cause difficulty sleeping,