The nurse performing a focused assessment on pain will assess: (Select all that apply.).

Choice A rationale:

It is not advisable to use sedative pills for long periods of time without consulting a primary care provider. Prolonged use of sedatives can lead to dependence and other adverse effects. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice B rationale:

Using sedative pills for short periods of time without physician approval is not a safe practice. Even nonprescription medications, including over-the-counter sedatives, should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. This choice is incorrect.

Choice C rationale:

The best advice for the patient is to use sedative pills for short periods of time, but it is best to check with the primary care provider first. This is the most appropriate choice as it emphasizes short-term use while also promoting communication with a healthcare provider to ensure the medication's safety and effectiveness.

Choice D rationale:

Using sedative pills for long periods of time without primary care provider approval is not recommended. It can lead to potential risks and side effects associated with prolonged sedative use. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice A rationale:

Culture can influence a person's perception and expression of pain. It's important to consider cultural factors when assessing and managing pain because beliefs and attitudes about pain can vary significantly among different cultural groups. This can affect how pain is experienced and communicated.

Choice B rationale:

Psychological factors, such as anxiety, depression, and coping mechanisms, play a significant role in the experience of pain. Assessing psychological factors is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the patient's pain experience and developing appropriate pain management strategies.

Choice C rationale:

Understanding the patient's history of pain is crucial for a focused pain assessment. Previous experiences with pain, including the cause, intensity, and effectiveness of previous pain management strategies, can provide valuable insights into the current pain situation.

Choice D rationale:

Assessing contributing factors, such as concurrent medical conditions, injuries, or environmental factors, is essential to determine the underlying causes of pain and develop an effective pain management plan.

Choice E rationale:

Verbal indicators are essential for assessing pain. Patients often describe their pain in words, and understanding their descriptions and expressions of pain is fundamental to evaluating its intensity, location, quality, and duration.