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 A
Explanation
a. An asymmetrical thorax could indicate chest trauma which could compromise oxygen delivery.
b. An open fracture of the femur without vessel inury is a lesser priority than chest trauma.
c. Preorbital edema (swelling around the eyes) may indicate facial trauma but is not as immediately lifethreatening as an open fracture.
d. A deep-partial thickness burn on the lower extremities is serious but does not pose an immediate threat to life compared to other injuries such as an open fracture with potential bleeding and risk of infection.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a. An evidence-based nursing journal would provide reliable, peer-reviewed information on the prevalence of Tay-Sachs disease, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
b. While the client's health care provider may have general knowledge about Tay-Sachs disease, they may not have specific prevalence statistics readily available.
c. The facility's case manager may assist with coordination of care but may not have specific information about the prevalence of Tay-Sachs disease.
d. Collaborative, user-edited websites may not always provide accurate or reliable information, so they should be used with caution for obtaining medical information.
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