A nurse assists with checking a client to evaluate the effectiveness of a pain medication. Which of the following components of professionalism is the nurse demonstrating?

Choice A rationale:

Asking the patient to rate their pain on a scale of 0-10 is a good initial response to assess the severity of pain. However, it should be followed by a more comprehensive assessment, which may include addressing the patient's concern about pain in the removed limb and providing appropriate interventions.

Choice B rationale:

Telling the patient that it is not possible to experience pain because the limb and nerves were removed is inaccurate and insensitive. This response does not address the patient's reported pain and may be perceived as dismissive.

Choice C rationale:

Telling the patient that they are not experiencing pain is both inaccurate and dismissive of the patient's reported pain. This response does not demonstrate empathy or a patient-centered approach to care.

Choice D rationale:

"I understand you are in pain, please rate your pain on a scale of 0-10, and I will get a mirror to assess the area" is the best response. This response acknowledges the patient's pain, uses a pain assessment scale to quantify the pain, and offers a solution to assess the area with a mirror. It demonstrates empathy and a proactive approach to addressing the patient's concern. .

The correct answer is B. Responsibility.

Choice A rationale:

“Fairness.” Fairness involves treating all clients equally and without bias. While fairness is an important aspect of professionalism, it is not specifically demonstrated by evaluating the effectiveness of pain medication.

Choice B rationale:

“Responsibility.” Responsibility refers to the nurse’s duty to provide safe and effective care. By checking the client to evaluate the effectiveness of pain medication, the nurse is fulfilling their responsibility to monitor the client’s response to treatment and ensure their comfort and well-being.

Choice C rationale:

“Confidence.” Confidence involves the nurse’s self-assurance in their skills and knowledge. While confidence is important in nursing practice, it is not the primary component demonstrated in this scenario.

Choice D rationale:

“Advocacy.” Advocacy involves supporting and speaking up for the client’s needs and preferences. Although advocacy is a crucial part of nursing, the act of evaluating pain medication effectiveness is more directly related to the nurse’s responsibility to provide appropriate care.

By demonstrating responsibility, the nurse ensures that the client’s pain management is effective and that any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan are made.