What vital sign is often referred to as the "fifth vital sign"?

The concept of "vital signs" traditionally includes temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure, which provide essential information about a patient’s physiological status. However, pain assessment has emerged as a critical parameter that significantly affects a patient's overall health and well-being.

Recognizing pain as the "fifth vital sign" underscores the importance of assessing pain on par with the other vital signs. It reflects the understanding that pain can influence a person’s quality of life and may require specific interventions. Adequately evaluating pain allows healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans, manage symptoms effectively, and enhance patient comfort and recovery.

Integrating pain assessment into routine vital signs monitoring allows healthcare professionals to gain a more comprehensive view of the patient’s condition, facilitating holistic care and improving patient outcomes.