Although nurses often rely on physiologic indicators such as an elevated heart rate or blood pressure when assessing pain, these parameters are not considered good indicators of pain (McCaffery, Herr, & Pasero, 2011). Research has shown that vital signs are not consistent with pain and such indicators should be used with caution (Arbour & Gelinas, 2009; Gelinas & Arbour, 2009). Increases in heart rate or blood pressure may occur with sudden, severe pain; however, the human body seeks equilibrium and quickly adapts (Pasero, 2009a). In addition, other factors such as hypovolemia, hypothermia, and some anesthetics may influence vital signs.