Compared with acute pain, which of the following statements is true of persistent pain?

Choice A reason: Teaching the client alternative comfort measures is not the best recommendation for the nurse to implement, as it may imply that the client's pain is not taken seriously or that the nurse is reluctant to provide pain relief. The nurse would teach the client alternative comfort measures, such as relaxation techniques, distraction, or massage, as a supplement to the pain medication, not as a substitute.

Choice B reason: Telling the client that it is too soon for pain medication is not a good recommendation for the nurse to implement, as it may make the client feel dismissed, ignored, or judged. The nurse would follow the prescribed pain medication schedule, but also consider the client's individual needs and preferences, and adjust the dosage or frequency as needed, with the doctor's approval.

Choice C reason: Administering the pain medication as requested by the client is not a safe recommendation for the nurse to implement, as it may cause overdose, addiction, or adverse effects. The nurse would administer the pain medication as prescribed by the doctor, and monitor the client's response, side effects, and vital signs.

Choice D reason: Validating the pain with other assessment data is the best recommendation for the nurse to implement, as it shows respect, empathy, and professionalism. The nurse would acknowledge the client's pain, ask about the location, intensity, quality, and duration of the pain, and use a pain scale or a pain assessment tool to measure the pain. The nurse would also check for any physical or behavioral signs of pain, such as grimacing, guarding, or restlessness. The nurse would document the pain assessment and report any changes or concerns to the doctor.

Choice A reason: Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection that affects the lungs, but it is not a chronic condition and does not cause airflow obstruction. It is not included in the diagnosis of COPD.

Choice B reason: Bacterial pneumonia is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and fluid accumulation in the lungs, but it is not a chronic condition and does not cause permanent damage to the airways. It is not included in the diagnosis of COPD.

Choice C reason: Bronchial asthma is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, resulting in difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. It is one of the main conditions that make up COPD, along with chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Choice D reason: Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that causes tuberculosis, a serious disease that affects the lungs and other organs. It is not a chronic condition and does not cause airflow obstruction. It is not included in the diagnosis of COPD.