Pain Self-Management Plan: Daily Green–Yellow–Red Zone Guide

Pain management isn’t just about medication — it’s about awareness. Knowing your “pain zones” helps you, your caregiver, and your care team respond quickly when something changes. This Pain Self-Management Plan uses a simple traffic-light system to show what’s normal, when to be cautious, and when to seek immediate help.

Keeping this chart visible — on your fridge, beside your medications, or in your care binder — helps everyone stay informed and act early to prevent complications.

🟢 Green Zone — All Clear

Your comfort level:
Rate your pain from 0–10 (0 = no pain, 10 = worst pain ever).

If you:

Are able to do basic activities and rest comfortably
Have no new pain
If using opioid medication, your bowels move every 2–3 days

What this means:
✅ You’re managing your pain at a safe and acceptable level.
✅ Continue taking medications as prescribed.
✅ Use your pain-relief methods (ice, heat, therapy, relaxation, etc.).
✅ Keep all medical appointments and exercise as directed.

🟡 Yellow Zone — Caution

If you have any of the following:

Pain that’s worse than your usual comfort level
Trouble doing normal activities or resting
New pain you’ve never had before
No bowel movement in 2–3 days (if on opioids)
Sleeping more than usual
Feeling sick to your stomach
Unable to take medications

What this means:
⚠️ Your pain control plan may need adjustment.
Call your home health nurse or primary care doctor for advice.

Keep this contact info handy:

Home Health Nurse: ______________________ Phone: ______________
Doctor: _________________________________ Phone: ______________

Caregiver tip: If pain worsens or new symptoms appear, act promptly. Don’t wait until the next visit.

🔴 Red Zone — Medical Alert: Stop and Think

If you:

Get no relief from usual pain treatments
Develop new, severe pain
Have not moved your bowels for more than 3 days while on opioids
Are extremely sleepy, throwing up, or confused

What this means:
🚨 This is an emergency.

You need evaluation by a healthcare professional immediately.
Call 9-1-1 or have someone take you to the nearest emergency room.
Notify your healthcare provider once you’re safe.

Pain-Management Tips for Home

Track your pain level (0–10) each day.
Write down what helps or worsens your pain.
Use non-drug therapies like stretching, breathing, or heat/cold packs.
Talk with your provider before changing any medication or dosage.
Keep caregivers informed about bowel movements, sleep, and mood changes.

Source

Adapted from materials prepared by the West Virginia Medical Institute, updated by TMF Quality Innovation Network and Lake Superior Quality Innovation Network, and adapted by Health Services Advisory Group (HSAG) under contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice or treatment. Always follow your healthcare provider’s directions.

Daily Living Tips, Senior Education

Pain Self-Management Plan: Understanding Your Green–Yellow–Red Zones