The nurse is explaining to a client with chronic pain why the physician has ordered a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to be given together with an opioid analgesic. Which is the most accurate statement?
a. The NSAID will decrease the likelihood of respiratory depression caused by the opioid.
b. The NSAID targets muscle pain while the opioid relieves central nervous system irritation.
c. Giving the medications together will provide better relief of pain while decreasing the amount of opioid medication required.
d. Giving the medications together reduces the need for additional pain medication during nighttime hours.
Question 2
When assessing a client for pain, the most important consideration for the nurse to remember is that:
a. increased pain will always be evident by a change in the client's vital signs.
b. clients may ask for pain medicine even though there are no observable signs of pain.
c. pain is a subjective measurement that can only truly be assessed according to the client's perceptions.
d. nursing must be careful in assessing and treating pain so their clients do not get addicted to pain medication.
A sample prescription written by a physician.
Explaining “Moving Continents”— The Theory of Plate Tectonics
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Use face cradle covers to prevent the client’s skin from touching the face cradle upholstery.
Building a Client Base Cont.
Neural pathways for pain