Complex regional pain syndrome--type I: research relevance, practice realities.

Because complex regional pain syndrome--type I usually occurs following minor trauma, clients will most likely be encountered in community settings. Nurses will come into contact with them as family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. It is important that nurses become knowledgeable about this syndrome to assist in early recognition, diagnosis, and treatment. The latest research findings have relevance for current practice, but many questions remain unanswered.