A hospice nurse is caring for a patient who has terminal cancer and is receiving hospice care for stage 4 metastatic breast cancer.
The patient experiences excruciating pain and is scheduled for morphine 10mg IM every 6 hours. The patient is sleeping, and the medication is due.
What action should the nurse take?
Hold the pain medication until the patient wakes up.
The patient should be given the scheduled pain medication.
Call the family and ask if the patient would like to be woken up to have their pain medication.
The patient has become addicted to the medication and is sleeping the last dose off.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Holding the pain medication until the patient wakes up is not the best choice. Pain can disrupt sleep, and it’s important to keep the patient as comfortable as possible. If the patient is sleeping, it may be because the pain is well-controlled, and delaying the medication could lead to a return of pain.
Choice B rationale
The patient should be given the scheduled pain medication. This is the best choice because it ensures that the patient’s pain is managed effectively. Even if the patient is sleeping, the medication should be given to prevent the pain from returning.
Choice C rationale
Calling the family and asking if the patient would like to be woken up to have their pain medication is not the best choice. The nurse should make this decision based on the patient’s pain level and the medication schedule, not on the family’s preferences.
Choice D rationale
The statement that the patient has become addicted to the medication and is sleeping the last dose off is not accurate. Addiction is a complex condition characterized by compulsive drug use despite harmful consequences. In this case, the patient is receiving the medication for a legitimate medical reason, and there is no indication of addiction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Neurogenic bladder is a condition where a person lacks bladder control due to a brain, spinal cord or nerve condition. This is not the most fitting answer because the scenario does not provide information about any neurological conditions.
Choice B rationale
Urinary retention can lead to urinary tract infections. The retained urine provides a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to infection.
Choice C rationale
Bladder outlet obstruction is a condition where the bladder is not able to empty properly. While urinary retention could be a symptom of this condition, the scenario does not provide enough information to suggest this diagnosis.
Choice D rationale
Genitourinary System Effects is a broad term that refers to any effects on the genital and urinary systems. This is not the most fitting answer because it is less specific than Choice B2.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Regression is a defense mechanism where an individual reverts to an earlier stage of development or a less mature behavior when faced with stress or anxiety. This does not fit the scenario provided. Choice B rationale
Projection involves attributing one’s own unacceptable feelings or thoughts to others. This is not the case in the scenario provided.
Choice C rationale
Rationalization involves creating logical but untrue explanations to justify unacceptable behavior or feelings. In this scenario, the patient is rationalizing their failure to take their medication by blaming their partner’s forgetfulness.
Choice D rationale
Repression involves unconsciously blocking out painful or uncomfortable thoughts or feelings. This does not fit the scenario provided.
Question 14.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.