A client indicates to the nurse a pain level of 8 out of 10. The nurse notes the client has an order for morphine 4 mg IV Q 6 hr PRN for moderate to severe pain. The client's blood pressure is 80/54 mm Hg, respirations 10 breaths/min, and pulse 62 beats/min. Which action should the nurse take?
Tell the client he can no longer have any more pain medication
Notify the prescribing physician
Administer half the dose of morphine, 2 mg IV
Administer 4 mg of morphine IV as ordered
The Correct Answer is B
A. Tell the client he can no longer have any more pain medication: This is not appropriate. The client’s severe pain needs to be managed, but the current vital signs suggest a need for careful evaluation before administration.
B. Notify the prescribing physician: This is the correct choice. The client's blood pressure and respiratory rate are significantly low, which could be exacerbated by morphine. The physician needs to be informed to reassess pain management and possibly adjust the treatment.
C. Administer half the dose of morphine, 2 mg IV: Given the client's low blood pressure and respiratory rate, any morphine administration could worsen these issues. Adjusting the dose without physician guidance is not appropriate.
D. Administer 4 mg of morphine IV as ordered: Administering the full dose without addressing the client’s low blood pressure and respiratory rate could lead to severe complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Serum glucose and a Complete Blood Count: While a complete blood count (CBC) is useful in assessing overall health, serum glucose is less relevant in the context of renal disease. The focus should be on kidney function rather than glucose levels.
B. Arterial blood gas and coagulation tests: Arterial blood gas (ABG) and coagulation tests may be important for other conditions, but they are not specifically targeted to evaluate renal function or related preoperative risks in renal disease.
C. Serum creatinine and a Basic Metabolic Panel: This is the correct choice as serum creatinine is a key marker of kidney function, and a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) provides information on electrolyte levels and overall metabolic status, which are crucial in evaluating the impact of renal disease on surgery.
D. Chest X-ray and cardiac enzymes: These tests are more relevant for evaluating cardiac function and lung status rather than directly assessing kidney function, which is the primary concern in the context of renal disease.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Teach the client a relaxation technique to use until the next dose is due: While relaxation techniques can be helpful in managing pain, they are not sufficient for severe pain rated 9/10. The client requires more immediate pharmacological intervention.
B. Obtain an order for an immediate-release opioid for breakthrough pain: This is the most appropriate action. Immediate-release opioids are specifically used to manage breakthrough pain in clients on sustained-release opioid therapy. It addresses the client's severe pain effectively and promptly.
C. Explain to the client that the medication being administered lasts for 12 hours: Simply explaining the duration of the medication does not address the client's current severe pain. Effective pain management requires action, not just education.
D. Assess the client's vital signs and administer the next dose of opioids early: Administering the next dose early can lead to inappropriate dosing schedules and potential overdose. It is important to follow the prescribed dosing regimen and manage breakthrough pain appropriately.
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