A client’s child presents with burning or shooting pain, numbness or tingling, and abnormal sensitivity to touch.
As a nurse, you recognize these symptoms as indicative of which type of pain?

Choice A rationale:

Offering medication without a clear diagnosis or doctor's assessment is not appropriate, as it could lead to improper treatment.

The child's condition should be evaluated before administering any medication.

Choice C rationale:

While it is important to assess the child's pain level, this statement doesn't address the need for further evaluation to determine the cause of the pain.

Pain assessment is a part of the nursing process, but in this case, it should be preceded by a medical evaluation.

Choice D rationale:

Complimenting the child for their bravery is a positive interaction, but it doesn't address the need for further evaluation or intervention to identify the cause of the pain.

The rationale for choice B is as follows: In this scenario, the nurse should prioritize the child's safety and well-being.

The child is experiencing abdominal pain described as "sharp" and "crampy," and there are signs of guarding and limited range of motion.

These symptoms could be indicative of a serious underlying issue, such as appendicitis.

Therefore, the most appropriate action is to call the doctor and discuss the need for further tests.

It's essential to rule out any potential surgical or medical emergencies before addressing the pain symptomatically.

This approach ensures that the child's condition is properly evaluated, and appropriate interventions can be initiated if necessary.

Choice B rationale:

Burning and tingling pain is more characteristic of neuropathic pain, often associated with nerve damage or dysfunction.

This type of pain is not typically associated with oncologic pain.

Choice C rationale:

Deep and crampy pain is more characteristic of nociceptive pain, which can be caused by tissue damage or inflammation.

It is not the primary descriptor of oncologic pain.

Choice D rationale:

Pain worsening with movement is not a specific indicator of oncologic pain.

It can be seen in various types of pain, including musculoskeletal or nociceptive pain.

The rationale for choice A is as follows: Oncologic pain, which is associated with cancer, is often described as sharp and stabbing.

This type of pain can result from the pressure exerted by the tumor on nearby tissues or nerve compression.

The fact that the pain is worse with movement and pressure is also consistent with oncologic pain, as tumors can become more painful when disturbed or pressed against other structures.

Therefore, the client's description of "sharp and stabbing" pain is indicative of oncologic pain and should be a cause for concern.

It is important for healthcare providers to further assess and manage this pain, considering the underlying cancer diagnosis.