The health care provider orders a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) machine to provide pain relief for a patient with acute surgical pain who has never received opioids before. Which nursing actions regarding opioid administration are appropriate at this time? (Select all that apply.)
Emphasize that their spouse may push the pain button when they are uncomfortable
Provide instructions on decreasing opioid doses by the second postoperative day.
Teach the patient about how analgesics improve postoperative activity levels.
Monitor for therapeutic and adverse effects of opioid administration.
Assess for signs that the patient is becoming addicted to the opioid.
Correct Answer : C,D
C. Education about the benefits of pain management, including how analgesics can improve postoperative activity levels by reducing pain and discomfort, helps to promote the patient's understanding and engagement in their own care.
D. Nurses should closely monitor the patient for both therapeutic effects and adverse effects of opioid administration when using PCA or any other opioid analgesic. Regular assessment allows for prompt identification and management of any complications or side effects.
A. Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) is designed for the patient to self-administer pain medication according to their own needs and pain levels.
B. Opioid dosing should be individualized based on the patient's pain level and response to the medication. Some patients may require ongoing opioid analgesia for more than two days postoperatively, while others may be able to transition to alternative pain management strategies sooner.
E. Concerns about opioid addiction should not be assumed in all patients, especially those who have never received opioids before. Instead, the focus should be on assessing the patient's pain levels, response to pain medication, and any adverse effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
A. The heart rate has increased from 92/min on Day 1 to 108/min on Day 2. This significant increase warrants immediate follow-up as it may indicate pain, anxiety, or an underlying physiological issue such as hemorrhage, infection, or cardiac complications.
D. The temperature has increased from 36.4°C (97.5°F) on Day 1 to 37.2°C (98.9°F) on Day 2. While this increase is within a relatively normal range, it is approaching a fever range (> 38°C or 100.4°F) and warrants further evaluation to determine if there is an underlying infection or inflammation.
B. The oxygen saturation remains relatively stable, from 95% on Day 1 to 96% on Day 2. While it is important to monitor oxygen saturation, the minimal change does not indicate an immediate concern. However, it should still be monitored closely for any further decrease.
C. Edema is not directly mentioned in the provided data. While edema can be indicative of various health issues, there is no evidence in the given information to suggest its presence or severity as a concern requiring immediate follow-up.
E. Urine color is not provided in the given data. While changes in urine color can indicate dehydration or other health issues, it is not mentioned in the assessment findings and therefore not a factor for immediate follow-up based on the information provided.
F Pedal pulses were noted as +2 on Day 1, indicating that they were present and normal. Unless there is a significant change in pedal pulses or signs of vascular compromise, such as decreased or absent pulses, there is no immediate need for follow-up based on the given information.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. This information is important to communicate to the surgical and anesthesia team as it indicates a potential family history of adverse reactions to anesthesia. Family history of anesthesia-related complications, especially in close relatives, can influence the anesthetic plan and help mitigate potential risks during surgery.
A. Clear fluids, such as apple juice, are typically allowed up to 2 hours before surgery, but the specific fasting instructions may vary depending on the institution's protocol and the type of surgery planned.
B. This information provides insight into the patient's caffeine consumption habits but it is not typically considered a critical factor to communicate to the surgical and anesthesia team before surgery.
D. Knowing the duration of aspirin cessation allows the anesthesia team to assess the patient's coagulation status and adjust the perioperative management accordingly. However, it does not present immediate risks as significant as a family history of anesthetic complications.
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