Subjective — ask

• Location(s), radiation, and the number of sites; onset and duration.
• Intensity now, at best, and at worst on a validated scale; the patient's goal.
• Quality (aching, sharp, burning, shooting) and pattern (constant, intermittent, breakthrough).
• Aggravating and relieving factors, including position, activity, and the analgesic regimen.
• Functional impact on ambulation, activities of daily living, sleep, appetite, and mood.
• Analgesic adherence, effect, and adverse effects; nonpharmacologic measures and their effect.