Causes and risk factors
Causes and risk factors ( 6 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a client who has chronic pain and is prescribed oxycodone. The client reports that they have been taking more than the prescribed dose because their pain is not well controlled. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Rationale: The first action the nurse should take when using the nursing process is to assess the client's condition. By assessing the client's pain level and quality, the nurse can determine the possible causes of their inadequate pain relief and plan appropriate interventions.
This is an important action, but not the first one. The nurse should first assess the client's pain before providing education.
This may be a helpful action, but not the first one. The nurse should first assess the client's pain and collaborate with the prescriber before making referrals.
This is an essential action, but not the first one. The nurse should first assess the client's pain and communicate their findings to the prescriber.
Correct answer: a) Assess the client's pain level and quality
Rationale: The first action the nurse should take when using the nursing process is to assess the client's condition. By assessing the client's pain level and quality, the nurse can determine the possible causes of their inadequate pain relief and plan appropriate interventions.
Incorrect choices:
b) Educate the client about the dangers of opioid overdose: This is an important action, but not the first one. The nurse should first assess the client's pain before providing education.
c) Refer the client to a pain management specialist: This may be a helpful action, but not the first one. The nurse should first assess the client's pain and collaborate with the prescriber before making referrals.
d) Notify the prescriber about the client's medication misuse: This is an essential action, but not the first one. The nurse should first assess the client's pain and communicate their findings to the prescriber.