A patient with chronic pain tells the nurse that she rarely ...

[PhilipSeeMore]

A patient with chronic pain tells the nurse that she rarely sleeps more than 3 hours a night. The nurse recognizes that this patient is at risk for developing which health problem?
 
  1. chronic insomnia
  2. depression
  3. high pain tolerance
  4. adult attention deficit disorder

Question 2

A patient with chronic pain is desperately searching for something to relieve the pain. What should the nurse recommend for this patient?
 
  1. A thorough analysis of the pain to determine if it is truly pain
  2. Avoiding the use of narcotics
  3. Evaluation by a psychiatrist to determine if the patient is depressed
  4. A pain medication schedule to help avoid the onset of pain

[jazzlynnnnn]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 2
Depression is clearly linked to pain, and insomnia is an associated symptom of chronic pain. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, is involved in the modulation of pain in the central nervous system. In clinically depressed people, serotonin is decreased, which leads to an increase in pain sensations. There is no evidence to support the risk of chronic insomnia or adult attention deficit disorder, or inferences concerning pain tolerance.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 4
It is now widely accepted that anticipating pain has a noticeable effect on the amount of pain a patient experiences. Offering pain relief before a pain event is well on its way can lessen the pain. The pain has already been identified as being real and chronic in nature. There is no mention of a depressed state, only the patient's need to address the pain. Avoidance of narcotics may not meet the patient's immediate needs.