A patient who has had good control for chronic pain using a fentanyl (Duragesic) patch reports rapid onset pain at a level 9 (0 to 10 scale) and requests "something for pain that will work quickly." How will the nurse document the type of pain reported by this patient?
Breakthrough pain
Referred pain
Neuropathic pain
Somatic pain
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. Breakthrough pain is a sudden, intense flare of pain that occurs even though the patient is receiving around-the-clock analgesia (such as a fentanyl patch). It requires fast-acting supplemental medication.
B. Referred pain is felt in a location different from its source (e.g., shoulder pain from gallbladder disease).
C. Neuropathic pain results from nerve damage and is typically described as burning, tingling, or shooting, not sudden breakthrough pain.
D. Somatic pain originates in bones, joints, muscles, or skin. While the patient may have somatic pain, the description of sudden severe pain despite ongoing analgesia defines breakthrough pain.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Burning and blurriness are common local side effects and not typically an indication that the dosage needs to be changed.
B. While true that timolol must be continued to preserve vision, this response does not address the patient’s concern about side effects.
C. Burning, discomfort, and temporary blurriness are common side effects of timolol eye drops and usually improve with continued use.
D. A medication change is not indicated unless symptoms are severe, persistent, or intolerable.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. This describes hydrotherapy, not an escharotomy.
B. This could refer to autolytic or enzymatic debridement, not an escharotomy.
C. An escharotomy is a surgical procedure in which incisions are made through the tough, burned tissue (eschar) to relieve pressure, restore circulation, and prevent tissue necrosis.
D. This describes a skin grafting procedure, not an escharotomy.
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