The nurse is explaining the differences between uncontrolled and controlled substances.
Which of the following medications is a controlled substance?

Choice A rationale

Controlled substances have a potential for dependence because they can cause physical and psychological dependence when misused. The dependence is characterized by withdrawal symptoms when the substance is not used, and it is a key factor in the regulation of these substances.

Choice D rationale

Controlled substances have a Schedule classification as mandated by the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). The schedule classification indicates the potential for abuse and medical use, with Schedule I substances having the highest potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, while Schedule V substances have the lowest potential for abuse.

Condition: Post-operative pain.

2 actions:

Administer acetaminophen (Tylenol) for mild pain,

Apply a warm compress to the surgical site.

2 parameters:

Pain level on a 0-10 scale,

Surgical site appearance.

Rationale for correct condition: Post-operative pain is expected after surgery and the client reports mild pain (2 out of 10). Managing pain is crucial for recovery and mobility. Mild pain indicates the need for non-opioid analgesics. Pain management enhances comfort and healing. Addressing pain prevents complications.

Rationale for actions: Administering acetaminophen targets mild pain effectively. It is appropriate for the reported pain level. Warm compresses can soothe soreness and reduce pain without medication. Encourages blood flow and healing. Encouraging ambulation prevents DVT but is not pain-focused. Monitoring for infection is important but not the priority for mild pain. Ondansetron treats nausea, not pain.

Rationale for parameters: Pain level on a 0-10 scale assesses pain management effectiveness. Monitoring pain ensures appropriate interventions. Surgical site appearance checks for complications affecting pain, like infection. Respiratory rate is stable and less relevant. Oxygen saturation is normal, unrelated to pain. Urine output monitors hydration, not pain.

Rationale for incorrect conditions: Post-operative nausea and vomiting is not reported. Surgical site infection would show signs like redness or fever. DVT focuses on circulation, not pain.