many people with cancer fear pain more than the disease itself. Yet most cancer pain can be relieved with rather simple strategies that are outlined in
published evidence-based guidelines
(Gordon et al., 2005; Miaskowski et al., 2005; National
Comprehensive Cancer Network, 2009; Pergolizzi et
al., 2008). Guidelines recommend universal screening
of all patients to identify the presence of pain at the
initial encounter; the patient’s self-report should be
the foundation for ongoing assessment. The guidelines
highlight the importance of a continuous process of
comprehensive assessment as the first essential step in
managing pain.