In assessing an alert patient’s pain, which of the following methods would be least useful?

Asking a patient's family about the patient's pain would be the least useful method in assessing an alert patient’s pain. This is because self-reporting is the gold standard in pain assessment, particularly when the patient is alert and capable of communicating their own experience. The patient's subjective experience of pain is crucial in understanding both the intensity and quality.

While family members may offer insights or historical data regarding the patient's pain experiences, they do not experience the pain themselves and may not accurately interpret or convey the patient's current condition. Their perspective can be influenced by personal opinions or emotional responses, which might not reflect the patient's true pain experience.

In contrast, using a pain scale allows for standardized measurement, providing a quantitative assessment of pain intensity. Assessing non-verbal cues is important for patients who may have difficulty articulating their pain, allowing for a broader understanding of their discomfort. Additionally, relying on the patient's verbal report directly engages them in their care and ensures that their individual experience is prioritized.