A patient has fallen and injured her knee.
It is not fractured, but there is considerable swelling and pain.
She asks which over-the-counter analgesic would be best to take for her discomfort.
The nurse tells her that one with NSAID properties would be best.
Which would it be best to take?

Choice A rationale:

If a patient with a Fentanyl patch is experiencing symptoms like abnormal sleepiness, slurred speech, and unsteadiness when ambulating, it could indicate an overdose or adverse reaction to the Fentanyl. In such cases, the patch should be removed immediately to stop the further absorption of the drug. Wiping off the skin can also help remove any residual medication. This is the correct choice as it addresses the issue at its source.

Choice B rationale:

Applying ice to the skin around the Fentanyl patch is not the appropriate action in this situation. Ice will not counteract the effects of a Fentanyl overdose or adverse reaction. The priority is to remove the patch and seek medical attention.

Choice C rationale:

Elevating the head of the bed and offering coffee or cola may be useful in combating some forms of sleepiness but would not be effective for someone experiencing an overdose or adverse reaction to Fentanyl. This choice does not address the problem's root cause and is not the appropriate action to take.

Choice D rationale:

Putting up the side rails on the bed does not address the issue of Fentanyl patch overdose or adverse reactions. This choice is not relevant to the situation and should not be chosen.

Choice A rationale:

This statement is not accurate and may confuse the client. In a Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA) system, a predetermined dose is delivered when the patient activates the device. The dose is usually controlled to prevent excessive medication administration.

Choice B rationale:

This statement is correct. The essence of PCA is that the patient has control over administering their pain medication within set limits or time intervals. The patient can self-administer doses when needed, ensuring effective pain management.

Choice C rationale:

Allowing the partner to push the PCA button for the patient is not recommended. PCA systems are designed to be controlled by the patient themselves to prevent potential overdosing. Involving someone else in the administration can lead to safety concerns.

Choice D rationale:

PCA systems do not deliver medication into the muscle. They typically deliver medication intravenously (IV) or subcutaneously. This statement is inaccurate and could lead to misconceptions about how the PCA system works.