A hospice nurse is caring for a client who has terminal illness and reports severe pain. After the nurse administers the prescribed opioid and benzodiazepine, the client becomes somnolent and difficult to arouse.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Continue the medication dosages that relieve the client’s pain
Contact the provider about replacing the opioid with an NSAID
Administer the benzodiazepine but withhold the opioid
Withhold the benzodiazepine but continue the opioid
The Correct Answer is D
a. Continuing both medications may exacerbate the somnolence and difficulty arousing experienced by the client. It's essential to address the adverse effects promptly.
b. NSAIDs are not typically the first choice for severe pain management in terminal illness, especially when opioids are already prescribed. Moreover, replacing the opioid with an NSAID may not adequately address the pain.
c. Administering the benzodiazepine alongside the opioid may further potentiate the sedative effects and worsen the client's condition.
d. This is the most appropriate action. Withholding the benzodiazepine can help mitigate the sedation while continuing the opioid ensures ongoing pain relief for the client's comfort without introducing additional sedating medications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
a. A system for tracking client information: While important for managing patients during a disaster, it may not be the highest priority resource in response to a bioterrorism event where protection against exposure to hazardous materials is paramount.
b. A sufficient supply of personal protective equipment: In a bioterrorism event, such as exposure to biological agents, personal protective equipment (PPE) is critical to prevent the spread of pathogens and protect healthcare workers and patients from contamination.
c. A mental health specialist on the response team: Mental health support is important for both staff and patients during and after a disaster, but it may not be the highest priority resource in the immediate response to a bioterrorism event.
d. A network for communication between staff members and families: Communication is essential during any disaster response, but ensuring an adequate supply of personal protective equipment takes precedence in the face of potential exposure to biological agents.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Collaborating involves working together with all parties to find a mutually beneficial solution. This approach values input from others and seeks consensus, which is not demonstrated in the scenario.
B. Cooperating typically refers to acknowledging and accommodating others' concerns while trying to maintain relationships. The nurse manager’s approach does not reflect this strategy, as she is disregarding opposing feelings.
C. Compromising seeks a middle ground where both parties can give and take to reach an agreement. The nurse manager's unilateral decision-making does not align with compromising.
D. Competing is characterized by an assertive and uncooperative stance, where one party seeks to impose their preferred solution without regard for others’ input or feelings. The nurse manager’s decision to implement changes despite opposition exemplifies this strategy.
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