A patient with metastatic cancer who was taking hydromorphone orally at home is now receiving the medication intravenously while in the hospital.
To evaluate if the patient is receiving an equianalgesic dose of the hydromorphone, which assessment should the nurse complete?
Respiratory rate.
Pain scale.
Blood pressure.
Level of consciousness.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
While monitoring the respiratory rate is important in a patient receiving opioids like hydromorphone, it does not directly indicate whether the patient is receiving an equianalgesic dose of the medication.
Choice B rationale
Pain scale assessment is the most direct way to evaluate if the patient is receiving an equianalgesic dose of hydromorphone. Equianalgesic refers to a dose of one opioid that would provide the same level of pain relief as a given dose of another opioid. If the patient’s pain is well-controlled, it suggests that the dose of hydromorphone is equianalgesic to the dose of the previous opioid.
Choice C rationale
Monitoring blood pressure is important in a patient receiving opioids as these medications can cause hypotension. However, blood pressure does not directly indicate whether the patient is receiving an equianalgesic dose of hydromorphone.
Choice D rationale
While it’s important to monitor the level of consciousness in a patient receiving opioids as these medications can cause sedation, it does not directly indicate whether the patient is receiving an equianalgesic dose of hydromorphone.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The patient was able to sleep through the night. This is a positive sign as it indicates that the patient is comfortable and not in distress. Sleep is essential for healing and recovery.
Choice B rationale
The patient’s left arm is warm to touch. This could indicate that there is adequate blood flow to the area, which is necessary for healing. However, warmth could also be a sign of inflammation or infection, so it’s important to monitor this closely.
Choice C rationale
The patient’s left shoulder and collarbone are symmetric. This is a good sign as it indicates that there is no obvious dislocation or fracture, which could cause pain and limit mobility.
Choice D rationale
The patient has no desire to eat breakfast. This is not necessarily a sign of progress. Loss of appetite can be a symptom of many conditions, including stress, infection, or certain medications. It’s important to encourage the patient to eat to maintain strength and support healing.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While the supervisor of the neurology unit may have expertise in neurology, they are not typically responsible for coordinating the progression of a patient’s care following a spinal cord injury.
Choice B rationale
The nurse in charge of risk management is typically responsible for identifying and evaluating risks in the healthcare setting. They are not typically involved in the direct management of a patient’s care.
Choice C rationale
The nurse case manager is specifically trained to coordinate and manage the care of patients with complex conditions, including spinal cord injuries. They work with the patient, family, and healthcare team to develop a comprehensive care plan.
Choice D rationale
While an adult nurse practitioner can provide a high level of care, they are not typically responsible for managing the progression of a patient’s care following a spinal cord injury.
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