Your patient has just returned from the postanesthetic care unit (PACU) following left tibia open reduction internal fixation (ORIF)

The patient is complaining of pain, and you are preparing to administer the patient's first scheduled dose of hydromorphone (Dilaudid). Prior to administering the drug, you would prioritize which of the following assessments?
A) The patient's electrolyte levels
B) The patient's blood pressure
C) The patient's allergy status
D) The patient's hydration status


Ans: C
Feedback:
Before administering medications such as narcotics for the first time, the nurse should assess for any previous allergic reactions. Electrolyte values, blood pressure, and hydration status are not what you need to assess prior to giving a first dose of narcotics.

Nursing

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