What drug might the nurse administer to achieve both analgesic and antitussive effects?

Choice A rationale

Using an “ouch” scale, such as the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale, is appropriate for young children. It allows them to express their pain intensity in a way that is understandable and relatable to their age group.

Choice B rationale

Encouraging a six-year-old to request pain medication may not be effective, as they might not understand when they need it or might be reluctant to ask.

Choice C rationale

Waiting to administer pain medication until the child begins to cry can delay pain relief, leading to unnecessary discomfort and anxiety.

Choice D rationale

Asking a young child to rate their pain on a scale of 1 to 10 might be confusing and less effective than using a more child-friendly method like the “ouch” scale.

Choice A rationale

A patient 3 days after surgery may still require higher doses of opioids for pain management, but the duration and intensity of postoperative pain typically decrease over time. This patient may not necessarily require a higher-than-expected dose compared to others.

Choice B rationale

Patients with cancer often experience severe and chronic pain due to the disease itself or its treatments. These patients may develop tolerance to opioids over time, necessitating higher-than-expected doses to achieve adequate pain relief.

Choice C rationale

Hypotension is a contraindication for high doses of opioids, as opioids can cause further blood pressure reduction. This patient would require careful dose adjustment to avoid exacerbating hypotension.

Choice D rationale

Patients with a concussion are at risk of altered mental status and respiratory depression from opioids. Therefore, higher doses are generally avoided to prevent worsening of these conditions.