A hospice nurse is caring for a patient who has terminal cancer and is receiving hospice care for stage 4 metastatic breast cancer.
The patient experiences excruciating pain and is scheduled for morphine 10mg IM every 6 hours. The patient is sleeping, and the medication is due.
What action should the nurse take?
Hold the pain medication until the patient wakes up.
The patient should be given the scheduled pain medication.
Call the family and ask if the patient would like to be woken up to have their pain medication.
The patient has become addicted to the medication and is sleeping the last dose off.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Holding the pain medication until the patient wakes up is not the best choice. Pain can disrupt sleep, and it’s important to keep the patient as comfortable as possible. If the patient is sleeping, it may be because the pain is well-controlled, and delaying the medication could lead to a return of pain.
Choice B rationale
The patient should be given the scheduled pain medication. This is the best choice because it ensures that the patient’s pain is managed effectively. Even if the patient is sleeping, the medication should be given to prevent the pain from returning.
Choice C rationale
Calling the family and asking if the patient would like to be woken up to have their pain medication is not the best choice. The nurse should make this decision based on the patient’s pain level and the medication schedule, not on the family’s preferences.
Choice D rationale
The statement that the patient has become addicted to the medication and is sleeping the last dose off is not accurate. Addiction is a complex condition characterized by compulsive drug use despite harmful consequences. In this case, the patient is receiving the medication for a legitimate medical reason, and there is no indication of addiction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
An electrical cord on the floor over a walkway can pose a tripping hazard, increasing the risk of falls. It’s important to keep walkways clear of any obstacles to prevent falls.
Choice B rationale
Using a cane to ambulate does not necessarily increase the risk of falls. In fact, canes are often used to improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls. However, it’s important that the cane is used correctly and is the right height for the individual.
Choice C rationale
Unsecured throw rugs, especially over a slippery surface like a tile floor, can easily cause someone to slip and fall. It’s recommended to secure rugs with non-slip backing or remove them entirely from high-traffic areas.
Choice D rationale
Macular degeneration can lead to vision loss, which can increase the risk of falls. Individuals with vision impairments may not be able to see hazards in their path, making them more prone to falls.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
This statement is incorrect. As people age, the flexibility of the lens of the eye actually decreases, not increases. This can lead to conditions such as presbyopia, which is difficulty focusing on close objects.
Choice B rationale
As people age, their depth perception can decrease. This can make it more difficult to judge distances and can increase the risk of falls.
Choice C rationale
This statement is incorrect. As people age, the tone of the eye muscles can decrease, not increase. This can lead to conditions such as presbyopia.
Choice D rationale
This statement is incorrect. As people age, the natural lens of the eye can actually thicken, not reduce. This can lead to conditions such as cataracts.
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