Which assessment is necessary before starting treatment for a patient with acute pain following surgery?

Obtaining and reviewing vital signs is a critical assessment prior to starting treatment for acute pain following surgery. Vital signs provide essential information about the patient’s current physiological status, including heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, and respiratory rate.

In the context of post-surgical care, vital signs can reveal signs of complications such as infection, bleeding, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. Monitoring the patient's vital signs enables healthcare professionals to determine the appropriateness and potential risks of pain management therapies, including medication administration. If vital signs are abnormal or indicative of instability, it may not be safe to initiate specific pain relief strategies until these issues are addressed.

Understanding the patient’s baseline vital signs helps in tailoring the pain management plan safely and effectively, while also ensuring that any signs of distress or complications are quickly recognized and managed.