A nurse is caring for a client who has chronic pain and is prescribed oxycodone. The client reports that they have been taking more than the prescribed dose because their pain is not well controlled. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Assess the client's pain level and quality
Educate the client about the dangers of opioid overdose
Refer the client to a pain management specialist
Notify the prescriber about the client's medication misuse
The Correct Answer is A
Correct answer: a) Assess the client's pain level and quality
Rationale: The first action the nurse should take when using the nursing process is to assess the client's condition. By assessing the client's pain level and quality, the nurse can determine the possible causes of their inadequate pain relief and plan appropriate interventions.
Incorrect choices:
b) Educate the client about the dangers of opioid overdose: This is an important action, but not the first one. The nurse should first assess the client's pain before providing education.
c) Refer the client to a pain management specialist: This may be a helpful action, but not the first one. The nurse should first assess the client's pain and collaborate with the prescriber before making referrals.
d) Notify the prescriber about the client's medication misuse: This is an essential action, but not the first one. The nurse should first assess the client's pain and communicate their findings to the prescriber.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Correct answer: a) "You should not take more than the prescribed dose because it can cause serious side effects."
Rationale: Methylphenidate is a stimulant that can increase alertness, attention, and energy. However, taking more than the prescribed dose can cause adverse effects such as insomnia, anxiety, palpitations, hypertension, psychosis, and seizures.
Incorrect choices:
b) "You should talk to your doctor about adjusting your dose if you feel that it is not effective.": This may encourage the client to continue misusing the medication and may not address the underlying causes of their academic difficulties.
c) "You should stop taking this medication because it is addictive and can lead to dependence.": This may discourage the client from adhering to their treatment plan and may not acknowledge the benefits of the medication for their condition.
d) "You should use other strategies to improve your concentration and memory, such as exercise and meditation.": This may imply that the medication is unnecessary or ineffective and may not address the risks of misusing the medication.
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
Correct answers:
a) Store prescription drugs in a secure place away from children and pets;
d) Follow the directions on the prescription label and do not adjust the dose without
consulting the prescriber;
e) Inform the prescriber and pharmacist about any allergies or other medications being
taken
Rationale: These are examples of safe practices that can prevent prescription drug misuse, abuse, diversion, and adverse reactions.
Incorrect choices:
b) Dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs in the trash or toilet: This is not a safe practice, as it can pose environmental and health hazards. The nurse should advise the clients to follow the FDA guidelines for proper disposal of prescription drugs, such as using drug take-back programs or mixing them with unpalatable substances before throwing them away in a sealed container.
c) Share prescription drugs with family or friends who have similar symptoms: This is not a safe practice, as it can lead to inappropriate use, overdose, interactions, or allergic reactions. The nurse should emphasize that prescription drugs are intended for individual use only and that self-medication or medication borrowing is dangerous.
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.