Medication such as sedatives and hypnotics are sometimes prescribed to promote sleep.

These can be used for long-term relief.

Choice A rationale:

Post-herpetic neuralgia. Post-herpetic neuralgia is a neuropathic pain that occurs as a complication of shingles (herpes zoster) and is characterized by severe, burning, or shooting pain in the affected area. It is not an example of nociceptive pain.

Choice B rationale:

Diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is another example of neuropathic pain and is caused by damage to the nerves due to diabetes. It typically presents as aching, burning, or tingling sensations and is not considered nociceptive pain.

Choice C rationale:

Phantom limb pain. Phantom limb pain is also a neuropathic pain that occurs after the amputation of a limb. Patients perceive pain or discomfort in the missing limb. It is not classified as nociceptive pain.

Choice D rationale:

Strained muscle. Strained muscle pain is a classic example of nociceptive pain. Nociceptive pain arises from the activation of pain receptors (nociceptors) due to tissue damage or inflammation. In the case of a strained muscle, the pain results from physical injury or overuse of the muscle, making it a nociceptive pain. Nociceptive pain can be further categorized into somatic and visceral pain. Somatic pain, as in the case of a strained muscle, arises from musculoskeletal structures, and it is typically well-localized, sharp, and aching. Understanding the nature of pain is essential for effective pain management and treatment selection. .

The correct answer is choice B. "Why do you think your husband needs more medication when he is asleep?"

Choice A rationale:

"Your husband should decide when more medication is needed.” This response is incorrect because it implies that the partner has the authority to decide when the client needs pain medication, which violates the purpose of a PCA pump. A PCA pump is specifically designed for client-controlled pain management, ensuring that the patient, not anyone else, controls when they receive pain medication. Allowing someone else to press the button can lead to overmedication and safety risks.

Choice B rationale:

"Why do you think your husband needs more medication when he is asleep?" This response is correct because it prompts the partner to reflect on their actions and provides an opportunity for the nurse to educate about the proper use of PCA pumps. It addresses the immediate issue without being confrontational and opens the door for further discussion on the importance of client safety and correct PCA use.

Choice C rationale:

"It's a good idea to help make sure your husband can sleep comfortably.” This response is incorrect as it endorses inappropriate and unsafe behavior. It encourages the partner to continue pressing the PCA button, risking the client's safety due to potential overmedication, which can lead to severe complications, such as respiratory depression.

Choice D rationale:

"Next time you think he needs more medication, call me and I'll push the button.” This response is incorrect because it contradicts PCA protocols and removes the control from the client. The nurse is responsible for monitoring the client’s pain and safety, not administering medication upon another person’s request. This approach also increases the risk of dosing errors and undermines the purpose of patient-controlled analgesia.