Roy (2009) considers pain as a compromised process related to sensation. The theorist
emphasised that pain deserves special consideration because the phenomenon of pain is one
of the most significant areas of nursing practice. Roy (2009, p. 299) articulated that, ‘For
the novice nurse, the ability to provide comfort and alleviate suffering is a fundamental
component of nursing responsibility. The experienced nurse never forgets this responsibility
and strives throughout a career to improve abilities to provide comfort-giving measures.’
Treating the pain was identified by the participants of this study as one way of providing
physical care to critically ill patients.