An analgesic is ordered for a post-surgical patient to be given every three to four hours. The nurse knows that a delay in giving the medication will cause a(n):

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A delay in giving the ordered analgesic medication will increase the chance of breakthrough pain, which is pain that occurs despite continuous pain management. This can result in increased discomfort and decreased overall pain control for the patient. Delaying the medication is not likely to have an effect on the chance of withdrawal symptoms or addiction, and will not increase the child's pain tolerance.

An Analgesic Is Ordered for a Post-Surgical Patient to Be