A client is rushed to the emergency department after a motorcycle accident. The client complains of severe pain in the hip area. The physician decides not to prescribe narcotic analgesics after learning that the client has a history of narcotic abuse. The nurse feels that the physician is not addressing the client's chief complaint. As a client advocate, which of the following is the most appropriate action of the nurse caring for the client?
A)Inform the nurse supervisor about the physician's decision not to prescribe narcotic analgesics to a client in pain.
B)Inform the ethics committee about the physician's action.
C)Discuss administering another type of pain medication with the physician.
D)Document the physician's decision, and look for another physician who can assess the client.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most appropriate action of the nurse is to the option of administering another type of pain medication for pain relief with the physician. A nurse is a client advocate. S/he should to the physician implementing alternative methods of pain relief. A and B do not address the main concern of the client. D is not correct as it is not cost-effective to have another physician assess the client. If a nurse feels that a physician is not addressing a client's concern, s/he must talk to the physician and raise this issue.

A Client Is Rushed to the Emergency Department After a Motorcycle