Flashcard 7 - Basic Care and Comfort Flashcard Set for the NCLEX-RN Exam

the Gate Control Theory

Described by Melzack and Wall, this theory states that pain is transmitted by a number of different nerve fibers along the dorsal horn of the spinal cord and its substantia gelatinosa. The substantia gelatinosa acts as a “gate” that controls these impulses. It can be “opened” by factors such as anxiety and lack of endorphins or “closed” by the lack of anxiety or adequate endorphins along with a patient’s belief that their pain can be managed and controlled. This theory helps clarify why pain is a subjective experience that varies from person to person.