A nurse is caring for a client who has a fractured leg and rates their pain as 7 on a scale of 0 to 10. Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to administer?
Hydrocodone
Acetaminophen
Fentanyl
Aspirin
The Correct Answer is A
A. Hydrocodone. This is an opioid analgesic appropriate for moderate to severe pain, such as a pain rating of 7/10. It is commonly used for acute pain management in cases like fractures and provides effective relief when non-opioids are insufficient.
B. Acetaminophen. While useful for mild to moderate pain, acetaminophen alone is likely inadequate for severe pain like that associated with a fracture rated 7/10.
C. Fentanyl. Fentanyl is a potent opioid used for severe or chronic pain, often in controlled settings such as surgery or cancer care. For an acute fracture, hydrocodone is typically preferred unless pain is extreme or uncontrolled.
D. Aspirin. Aspirin is primarily used for mild pain or anti-inflammatory purposes and is not appropriate as a first-line agent for severe pain. Additionally, it may increase the risk of bleeding, which is a consideration in trauma cases.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "You have already consented to this treatment, so you must continue." This response disregards the client’s autonomy. Clients have the right to withdraw consent and stop treatment at any time, even after initially agreeing to it.
B. "I will let your doctor know that you want to discontinue treatment." This response respects the client’s right to make decisions about their care and ensures that the healthcare team is informed to support the client appropriately. It demonstrates advocacy and ethical practice.
C. "You should discuss this with your family and see if they agree." While family input can be helpful, the final decision rests with the client, not their family. This response may undermine the client’s autonomy.
D. "I know this treatment is difficult for you, but you will feel better." This is a minimizing statement that may come across as dismissive. It does not acknowledge the client’s feelings or support their decision-making process.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Urinary output 120 mL/4 hr. This is on the lower end of normal but not critical. It should be monitored, especially in clients on opioids, but does not require immediate reporting ahead of more life-threatening findings.
B. Pupil diameter 6 mm. Dilated pupils may suggest other issues such as anxiety, medication effects, or pain, but are not a common concern with morphine, which usually causes miosis (pupil constriction). Still, this is not the most urgent concern.
C. Bowel movement 5 days ago. Constipation is a common side effect of opioids, including morphine, and should be addressed with stool softeners or laxatives. However, it is not an emergency.
D. Blood pressure 80/40 mm Hg. This indicates hypotension, a potentially life-threatening side effect of IV morphine, especially if it results in decreased perfusion or shock. It requires immediate intervention and provider notification.
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