Which of the following lists the five pain characteristics? (new option)

• A. Distribution; Intensity; Duration; Location; Aggravating factors
• B. Intensity; Duration; Distribution; Character; Provocation factors
• C. Location; Onset; Quality; Pattern; Relief factors
• D. Severity; Timing; Pattern; Relief; Onset

Answer: (A)

Describing pain using five characteristics provides a practical, standardized profile that guides evaluation and treatment. The set covers where the pain is and whether it radiates (distribution and location), how strong the pain is (intensity), how long it lasts (duration), and what provokes or worsens it (aggravating factors). This combination gives both spatial information and the temporal pattern, along with how the patient responds to activity, which is essential for planning interventions and tracking progress. Other lists may emphasize quality, onset, or relief, but they omit at least one essential descriptor, limiting the ability to fully characterize the pain and tailor treatment.