A client is 3 days postop, and the physician orders an oral pain medication. The client asks the nurse if it wouldn't be better to get the medication in the intravenous (IV) line. What is the best response by the nurse?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Oral medications are generally considered safer than intravenous (IV) medications, as there is less risk of infection or other complications from the IV line. Additionally, the client may not have access to IV medications at home, so it is important to establish oral pain control. While IV medications may have a more rapid onset of action, oral medications can still be effective for pain relief. Option A is not an appropriate response, as it does not address the client's concern or provide information about the benefits of oral medications. Option B is incorrect, as there is no evidence to suggest that oral medications are universally more effective than IV medications. Option D is not relevant to the client's question, as the decision to remove the IV line would be based on clinical criteria rather than the client's desire for a different form of pain control.

A Client Is 3 Days Postop, and the Physician Orders