When caring for a comatose resident, which indication might suggest the resident is in pain?

A grimacing expression and moaning upon entry to the room can be significant indicators that a comatose resident is experiencing pain. Even though the resident may not be able to verbalize their discomfort due to their condition, non-verbal cues such as facial expressions, body movements, and vocalizations are often the only ways to assess their pain levels. Grimacing may indicate that the resident is reacting to discomfort, while moaning can indicate distress or an instinctive response to pain.

Other options do not reliably correlate with indications of pain. Increased sleeping could be due to many factors, including medications or the natural state of being in a coma. Refusal to eat might not be a direct sign of pain, as it can also stem from lack of awareness or the ability to process hunger. Calm breathing patterns typically suggest a state of comfort rather than distress or discomfort. Therefore, the presence of grimacing and moaning is the most informative indicator of potential pain in a comatose resident.