A client reports a great deal of pain following a fairly minor operation. The surgeon leaves a prescription for the nurse to administer a placebo instead of pain medication. What actions by the nurse are most appropriate? (Select all that apply.)
a. Consult with the prescriber and voice objections.
b. Delegate administration of the placebo to another nurse.
c. Give the placebo and reassess the client's pain.
d. Notify the nurse manager of the physician's request.
e. Tell the client what the prescriber ordered.
ANS: A, D
Nurses should never give placebos to treat a client's pain (unless the client is in a research study). This practice is unethical and, in many states, illegal. The nurse should voice concerns with the prescriber and, if needed, contact the nurse manager. The nurse should not delegate giving the placebo to someone else, nor should the nurse give it. The nurse should not tell the client unless absolutely necessary (the client asks) as this will undermine the prescriber-client relationship.
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