Kathy is working in a mother-baby unit.
Which pain scale is used to determine if the baby is in pain?

The correct answer is D. "I will call for pain medication before the previous dose wears off."

Choice A rationale:

This statement indicates a misunderstanding of pain management. Avoiding medication to prevent addiction can lead to uncontrolled pain, which can hinder recovery and increase the risk of complications.

Choice B rationale:

While this statement shows the client is aware of their pain, waiting until it becomes intolerable can result in periods of severe discomfort and potential setbacks in recovery.

Choice C rationale:

Relying on a nurse to evaluate pain before requesting medication can delay pain relief, leading to unnecessary suffering and potential complications.

Choice D rationale:

This statement indicates an understanding of proactive pain management. By requesting medication before the previous dose wears off, the client helps maintain consistent pain control, which is crucial for recovery and preventing pain escalation.

Choice A rationale:

Sedatives and hypnotics are not typically recommended for long-term relief of sleep problems. They are more commonly used for short-term management of insomnia or acute sleep disturbances. Using these medications for an extended period can lead to tolerance, dependence, and potential side effects.

Choice B rationale:

Neuritis secondary to diabetes is not directly related to the use of sedatives and hypnotics for sleep. This choice does not affect the true or false statement about the long-term use of these medications.

Choice C rationale:

A severely sprained ankle does not impact the use of sedatives and hypnotics for sleep. This choice is not relevant to the true or false statement regarding the long-term use of these medications.

Choice D rationale:

Impaired peripheral circulation is not a determining factor for the long-term use of sedatives and hypnotics for sleep. This choice does not influence the true or false statement in question.