A nurse is preparing to administer an oral opioid analgesic to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when handling an unused portion of the medication after administration?

Choice A rationale:

The family member understanding that the nurse can adjust the mother's pain medication as needed indicates an understanding of the nurse's role in managing the patient's symptoms. However, this statement does not demonstrate an understanding of end-of-life care as a holistic process involving various aspects beyond pain management.

Choice B rationale:

This choice reflects a comprehensive understanding of end-of-life care. The family's responsibility to obtain support services shows awareness of the need for a multidisciplinary approach to address physical, emotional, and practical needs during this process. End-of-life care is a collaborative effort, and this choice accurately acknowledges the role of the family in coordinating necessary services.

Choice C rationale:

The statement about prolonging the patient's life through services reflects a misconception about end-of-life care. The focus of end-of-life care is on improving the quality of life and managing symptoms rather than attempting to extend life. This choice suggests a lack of understanding about the terminal nature of the illness.

Choice D rationale:

Believing that the doctor will make all decisions about the patient's care might indicate a lack of involvement or shared decision-making in the care process. End-of-life care often involves discussions among the medical team, patients, and their families to ensure that the patient's wishes and preferences are respected.

Choice A rationale:

Positioning the client so that they are lying flat (Choice A) is not the appropriate action after evisceration. Evisceration is the protrusion of internal organs through a wound, and lying flat could potentially put pressure on the exposed organs and worsen the situation.

Choice B rationale:

Increasing the client's oral fluid intake (Choice B) is generally a good practice for postoperative care, but it is not the priority in the case of evisceration. The primary concern is protecting the exposed organs and preventing infection.

Choice C rationale:

Preparing the client for emergency surgery (Choice C) is the correct action after observing evisceration. Evisceration is a surgical emergency, and the client needs immediate medical intervention to repair the wound and secure the exposed organs.

Choice D rationale:

Applying gentle pressure to the dressed wound (Choice D) is contraindicated in the case of evisceration. Applying pressure could further damage the exposed organs and increase the risk of infection.