A patient with chronic pain is desperately searching for something to relieve the pain. What should the nurse recommend for this patient?
1. A thorough analysis of the pain to determine if it is truly pain
2. Avoiding the use of narcotics
3. Evaluation by a psychiatrist to determine if the patient is depressed
4. A pain medication schedule to help avoid the onset of pain
Correct Answer: 4
It is now widely accepted that anticipating pain has a noticeable effect on the amount of pain a patient experiences. Offering pain relief before a pain event is well on its way can lessen the pain. The pain has already been identified as being real and chronic in nature. There is no mention of a depressed state, only the patient's need to address the pain. Avoidance of narcotics may not meet the patient's immediate needs.
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