A patient with cancer is admitted to the hospital. The nurse obtains an admission history and learns that the patient has been taking oxycodone and a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for a year. The patient reports a recent increase in the intensity of pain, along with a new pain described as "burning" and "shooting." The nurse anticipates that the prescriber will order:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As pain increases in severity, more powerful opioids should be used. This patient has been taking oxycodone, which is a moderate-strength opioid; fentanyl is stronger. Because the pain is chronic and is now severe and because the patient has opioid tolerance, a transdermal patch may be used. Long-term use of NSAIDs is not recommended because of the risk of thrombotic events. The patient also is describing neuropathic pain, which can be treated with an adjuvant analgesic. Fixed-dose combination drugs are not recommended for increasing pain. NSAIDs are not recommended long term. Intramuscular medications are not recommended because of the pain associated with administration.

A Patient with Cancer Is Admitted to the Hospital