The client rings pain medication from the nurse. Upon assessment, the nurse finds the client sitting up in a chair, watching television with her husband. Vital signs are normal and the client's skin is warm and dry. Which nursing actions are appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rationale 1: When the client complains of pain, the nurse should always ask for a pain rating.
Rationale 2: Clients respond to pain differently. For example, this client may be trying to hide the intensity of pain from her husband.
Rationale 3: Having the client go back to bed and asking the visitor to leave is punitive and could be interpreted as the nurse not believing the client. Being active and having diversions can help with pain management.
Rationale 4: The nurse should check to see when the client last had pain medication, what drug was given, what dose was given, and by what route it was administered.
Rationale 5: There is no reason to have another nurse assess the client. This action may imply that the nurse does not trust the client.

The Client Rings Pain Medication from the Nurse