The parents of a child hospitalized with sickle cell anemia tell the nurse that they are concerned about narcotic analgesics causing addiction. Which is appropriate for the nurse to explain about narcotic analgesics?
a. Are often ordered but not usually needed
b. Rarely cause addiction because they are medically indicated
c. Are given as a last resort because of the threat of addiction
d. Are used only if other measures, such as ice packs, are ineffective
ANS: B
The pain of sickle cell anemia is best treated by a multidisciplinary approach. Mild to moderate pain can be controlled by ibuprofen and acetaminophen. When narcotics are indicated, they are titrated to effect and are given around the clock. Patient-controlled analgesia reinforces the patient's role and responsibility in managing the pain and provides flexibility in dealing with pain. Few, if any, patients who receive opioids for severe pain become behaviorally addicted to the drug. Narcotics are often used because of the severe nature of the pain of vasoocclusive crisis. Ice is contraindicated because of its vasoconstrictive effects.
You might also like to view...
Which are medical applications of central nervous system drugs? (Select all that apply.)
a. Analgesia b. Anesthesia c. Depression d. Euphoria e. Seizure control
During insertion of the nasogastric tube, the nurse encounters strong resistance in the left naris. Which should the nurse implement to prevent this problem?
1. Use a smaller-diameter tube. 2. Apply lubricant to the NGT. 3. Instruct client to bear down. 4. Assess bilateral nares patency.
A female patient is an adolescent who recently tried to overdose because her boyfriend broke up with her. Her father is a single parent, and he has been drinking excessively to cope with his stress
The patient tells the nurse that whenever she needs to talk to her father, he is always drunk or away drinking with his drinking buddies. Based on this information, which nursing diagnosis would be most appropriate for this patient's family? A) Ineffective Family Therapeutic Regimen Management B) Compromised Family Coping C) Ineffective Denial D) Caregiver Role Strain
A student nurse verbalizes understanding of medication administration in adolescents when she states:
1. "Teens absorb medication at the same rate as adults.". 2. "Most approved medications are safe for kids too.". 3. "Medications are metabolized faster by a patient in puberty.". 4. "Puberty has no effect on the elimination of medications.".