A nurse in the emergency department is caring for a patient with a fractured tibia and fibula who admits to regular heroin use. Which factor should be used to determine the presence of pain and need for pain medication?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient’s self-report of pain intensity is the most reliable indicator of pain and the need for pain medication. It is important to assess pain in patients with a history of substance use, as they may have a higher tolerance for pain medication and require higher doses. The other factors, such as prior opiate use, sleeping patterns, and emotional state, may provide important context but should not be relied upon solely to determine the need for pain medication.

A Nurse in the Emergency Department Is Caring for a Patient