A patient who is receiving around-the-clock pain medication ...

[washai]

A patient who is receiving around-the-clock pain medication complains of an acute exacerbation of pain. What should the nurse do to help this patient?
 
  1. Provide the medication ordered for breakthrough pain.
  2. Talk the patient through the pain.
  3. Encourage the patient to ignore the pain.
  4. Give the patient a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

Question 2

A patient has periodic severe nerve pain that is not well controlled with pain medication. The nurse thinks that this patient might benefit from which pain management approach?
 
  1. a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
  2. a narcotic
  3. an antidepressant
  4. a local anesthetic

[jazzlynnnnn]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1
Breakthrough pain (BTP) occurs in patients who are receiving long-acting analgesics for chronic pain. It is a transitory experience of moderate to severe pain that is often precipitated by coughing or movement but may occur spontaneously. Short-acting opioids for this type of pain should be administered as needed in addition to the ATC dose for chronic, persistent pain. The pain must be addressed; it is not appropriate to talk the patient through the pain or encourage the patient to ignore the pain. NSAIDs can only be given with the physician's order.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 3
Antidepressants within the tricyclic and related chemical groups act on the production and retention of serotonin in the CNS, thus inhibiting pain sensation. They also promote normal sleeping patterns, which further alleviates the suffering of the patient in pain. They are useful with neuropathic pain. Other medications are prescribed before introducing narcotics. The NSAID group can have serious side effects, including bleeding tendencies, and would not be appropriate in a long-term situation. A local anesthetic would not be appropriate for long-term pain management.

[washai]

Thank you

[jazzlynnnnn]

Happy to help you