A nurse is explaining to a family that their child’s pain management will include both non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment options.
Which of the following factors should the nurse consider when planning this approach?

Choice A rationale:

The severity of the child's pain is an important factor to consider when planning pain management.

Severe pain may necessitate stronger pharmacological interventions, while mild pain may be managed effectively with non-pharmacological methods.

However, this choice does not cover all the factors that should be considered.

Choice B rationale:

The family's preference for only pharmacological methods is a factor to consider, but it should not be the sole determinant.

A balanced approach, considering the child's needs and the best practices in pain management, is crucial.

Relying solely on pharmacological methods might not provide the most appropriate care for the child.

Choice C rationale:

The child's age and developmental level are critical factors to consider when planning pain management.

Children of different ages have varying pain perception and communication abilities.

Non-pharmacological methods may be more suitable for younger children, while pharmacological options can be considered for older children.

The choice of treatment should be individualized based on the child's age and developmental stage.

Choice D rationale:

The availability of only one type of treatment option is not ideal for pain management.

A comprehensive approach that combines non-pharmacological and pharmacological options is often more effective in providing adequate pain relief.

Relying on only one type of treatment may limit the nurse's ability to address the child's unique needs.

Chronic pain.

Choice A rationale:

Acute pain Acute pain is characterized by a sudden onset and is typically short-lived, often related to a specific injury or illness.

It is not persistent, as described by the client.

The client's pain has been bothering them for months, which is more indicative of chronic pain.

Choice B rationale:

Chronic pain Chronic pain is pain that lasts for an extended period, usually defined as lasting for at least three to six months.

It can result from various causes, such as injury, inflammation, or underlying medical conditions.

The client's description of persistent pain for months aligns with the characteristics of chronic pain.

Choice C rationale:

Musculoskeletal pain Musculoskeletal pain is pain that originates from the muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and other structures related to the musculoskeletal system.

While the client's pain may involve musculoskeletal components, the description provided suggests a broader, chronic pain experience that is not exclusively musculoskeletal in nature.

Choice D rationale:

Nociceptive pain Nociceptive pain results from the activation of pain receptors (nociceptors) due to tissue damage or inflammation.

It is typically associated with acute pain.

The client's description of persistent pain for months does not align with the characteristics of nociceptive pain, which is usually short-lived.