A patient recovering from surgery for a ruptured appendix yesterday has an order for morphine 4 mg q 6 hours prn.Every 5 hours and 55 minutes,the patient puts on the call light and asks for the morphine.A staff member comments that the patient is drug-seeking.Which action by the nurse is most appropriate first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient has acute postsurgical pain that is not being controlled effectively with a q 6 hour schedule.The nurse should consult with the RN or physician for a change in orders.D.The patient just had surgery yesterday,so it is not reasonable to wean off the opioid yet.A.The morphine cannot be given every 4 hours without an order.B.Educating the staff member may be appropriate,but treating the patient's pain is the first priority.

A Patient Recovering from Surgery for a Ruptured Appendix Yesterday