Prior to administering pain medication to an adult postoperative client, what information should the practical nurse (PN) obtain? (Select all that apply.)

The correct answer is choiced. “I try not to look at the scales on my body.”

Choice A rationale:Limiting time spent in sunlight is generally a good practice for individuals with psoriasis, as excessive sun exposure can trigger flare-ups or worsen symptoms.

Choice B rationale:Removing old medication before applying a new dose is a proper practice to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and prevent skin irritation.

Choice C rationale:Avoiding fabric softener is advisable for individuals with psoriasis, as fabric softeners can contain chemicals that may irritate sensitive skin.

Choice D rationale:This statement indicates a potential psychological impact of psoriasis on the client. It suggests that the client might be experiencing distress or avoidance behavior due to the appearance of their skin, which should be reported to the provider for further assessment and support.

• A. "I can take antacids at the same time as this medication.” This is generally incorrect. While antacids can provide quick relief, they can interfere with the absorption of pantoprazole. It's usually recommended to separate antacid use from pantoprazole by at least a couple of hours.
• B. "I will need to remain upright for 1 hour after taking the medication.” This is incorrect. This is a common instruction for general GERD management, but not specifically related to taking the pantoprazole medication itself.
• C. "I have to take this medication on an empty stomach.” This is generally correct. PPIs like pantoprazole work best when taken before meals, typically 30-60 minutes before breakfast. This allows the medication to be absorbed and ready to reduce acid production when you eat.
• D. "I should expect to have diarrhea while taking this medication.” While diarrhea can be a side effect of pantoprazole, it's not a guaranteed or expected outcome.