A postoperative client has liberal orders for pain medication and the nurse is delivering them on a strict schedule. The client denies pain when assessed but appears worried, is fidgeting in bed, cries occasionally, and uses the call light frequently for "minor" requests. When analyzing this situation, which component of the pain medication plan might the nurse discover needs revision?
A) The doses of medications are too low.
B) The interval between doses is too long.
C) The nurse needs a better therapeutic relationship with the client.
D) The route of administration should be changed to a faster acting route.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pain management includes more than giving medication. This client is displaying behaviors consistent with anxiety, which is contributing to the intensity of the pain and the effectiveness of the pain medication. In a therapeutic relationship, the client feels cared for, supported, and understood. The client will in turn develop confidence in the nurse to keep the pain under control. The nurse should assess his or her actions towards the client to ensure he/she has established a professional, therapeutic relationship.

A Postoperative Client Has Liberal Orders for Pain Medication and the Nurse