The nurse is caring for an older client with chronic pain caused by arthritis and uterine cancer. What is the best approach for the nurse to take when managing this client's pain?
1. Administering the pain medication around the clock
2. Administering the medication when the client requests it
3. Consulting the physician to order intravenous pain medication
4. Administering the medication sparingly to avoid narcotic addiction
1. Administering the pain medication around the clock
Explanation: 1. Pain medication is best when it is administered around the clock.
2. Needless suffering occurs when waiting for the client to request something for pain.
3. Oral medications are the least invasive and may provide sufficient relief; therefore, they should be tried first.
4. Needless suffering occurs when the medication is used sparingly. Older people are less likely to become addicted to narcotics.
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