A terminally ill non-English speaking patient continues to cry out "hot" when being turned and repositioned in the bed. It is documented that the patient uses ice to reduce pain in the lower back. Which of the following should the nurse do to assist this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The use of cultural interventions, such as music, prayer, and herbal remedies must be considered and efforts should be made to integrate these therapies as valid measures to control pain for patients with terminal conditions. Once pain has been assessed, it is important to determine what other interventions can be used in combination with or in place of pain medications. Since the patient is using the word "hot" and it is documented that the uses ice to reduce lower back pain, the nurse should provide pain medication with a cool or cold ice pack. The nurse should not limit the times the patient is turned and repositioned. The nurse should not assume that "hot" refers to the lighting in the room. The nurse should also not assume that "hot" refers to the sheets and blankets on the bed.

A Terminally Ill Non-English Speaking Patient Continues to Cry Out