Question

The hydromorphone administered at the beginning of the shift worked well to address Mr. Jones' pain. Thirty minutes post administration, he rated his current level of pain at a 3 on a 1 to 10 scale. It is now early afternoon and Mr. Jones is preparing for physical therapy. Which nursing action is most appropriate at this time?

A. Assessing the patient's current level of pain
B. Monitoring the patient for respiratory depression
C. Asking the therapist to initiate therapy on the next shift
D. Administering a prn dose of prescribed oral pain medication

Answer 1

The most appropriate action is to assess Mr. Jones' current level of pain before he begins physical therapy to ensure his pain is adequately controlled and he is able to participate effectively.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate nursing action at this time, as Mr. Jones is preparing for physical therapy after having his pain initially managed with hydromorphone, would be A. Assessing the patient's current level of pain. This assessment provides crucial information on whether Mr. Jones is in a suitable condition to participate in physical therapy and whether additional pain relief is needed. If pain is manageable, the therapy can proceed.

An assessment helps to balance the risk of respiratory depression, a side effect associated with opioids like hydromorphone. Monitoring for this adverse effect is critical, but it might not influence the immediate decision to proceed with physical therapy unless the patient shows signs of respiratory compromise. Administering a PRN dose of prescribed oral pain medication might be considered after reassessing the pain if Mr. Jones reports increased pain that could impede his ability to participate effectively in physical therapy.