The health care provider orders a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) machine to provide pain relief for a patient with acute surgical pain who has never received opioids before. Which nursing actions regarding opioid administration are appropriate at this time? (Select all that apply.)
Emphasize that their spouse may push the pain button when they are uncomfortable
Provide instructions on decreasing opioid doses by the second postoperative day.
Teach the patient about how analgesics improve postoperative activity levels.
Monitor for therapeutic and adverse effects of opioid administration.
Assess for signs that the patient is becoming addicted to the opioid.
Correct Answer : C,D
C. Education about the benefits of pain management, including how analgesics can improve postoperative activity levels by reducing pain and discomfort, helps to promote the patient's understanding and engagement in their own care.
D. Nurses should closely monitor the patient for both therapeutic effects and adverse effects of opioid administration when using PCA or any other opioid analgesic. Regular assessment allows for prompt identification and management of any complications or side effects.
A. Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) is designed for the patient to self-administer pain medication according to their own needs and pain levels.
B. Opioid dosing should be individualized based on the patient's pain level and response to the medication. Some patients may require ongoing opioid analgesia for more than two days postoperatively, while others may be able to transition to alternative pain management strategies sooner.
E. Concerns about opioid addiction should not be assumed in all patients, especially those who have never received opioids before. Instead, the focus should be on assessing the patient's pain levels, response to pain medication, and any adverse effects.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. Excessive thyroid hormone replacement therapy, leading to hyperthyroidism, can accelerate bone turnover and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Hyperthyroidism can disrupt normal bone remodeling processes, leading to decreased bone mineral density and increased fracture risk.
A. NSAIDs are commonly used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. While short-term or occasional use of NSAIDs is generally safe, long-term use or high doses of NSAIDs may be associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures.
B. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin and heparin, are medications used to prevent blood clot formation. While anticoagulants themselves are not directly associated with osteoporosis risk, prolonged immobilization due to conditions requiring anticoagulation therapy (such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) can increase the risk of osteoporosis and bone loss due to decreased weight- bearing activity.
C. Cardiac glycosides, such as digoxin, are medications used to treat heart failure and certain cardiac arrhythmias. There is no direct evidence to suggest that cardiac glycosides themselves are a risk factor for osteoporosis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Immediate-release morphine provides rapid pain relief and can effectively address breakthrough pain. The dose of 30 mg is reasonable given the severity of the pain.
A. Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety. While it may help with anxiety, it does not directly address the severe breakthrough pain experienced by the patient.
C. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat neuropathic pain and depression. While it may help with chronic pain management, it is not appropriate for providing rapid relief for breakthrough pain or acute anxiety.
D. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used for mild to moderate pain relief and inflammation. However, it is not typically used for severe breakthrough pain, especially in a patient already receiving opioid therapy.
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