A client with multiple myeloma is complaining of severe pain when the nurse comes in to give a bath and change position. What is the priority intervention by the nurse?

Question

A) Inform the client that the position must be changed, and then you will give her pain medication and omit the bath.
B) Inform the client that she will feel better after receiving a bath and clean sheets.
C) Obtain the pain medication and delay the bath and position change until the medication reaches its peak.
D) Inform the client that the bath and positioning is an important part of client care and will be done right after pain medication administration.

Answer 1

C
Feedback:
When pain is severe, the nurse delays position changes and bathing until an administered analgesic has reached its peak concentration level and the client is experiencing maximum pain relief. Pain medication should never be delayed to assist in the control of the level of pain. Pain will not be relieved by a bath and clean sheets, only analgesics at this point in the client's illness.