The 17-month-old toddler, diagnosed with terminal cancer, is experiencing constant pain. Which prescription does the nurse anticipate from the healthcare provider for this toddler?

Question

1. Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) with the parents controlling the button that administers the dosage
2. Intravenously administered opioids on a scheduled basis
3. Intravenously administered opioids on a prn basis
4. Orally administered opioids on a prn basis

Answer 1

2
Explanation:
1. PCA should always be controlled by the individual receiving the medication. It is inappropriate to have the parents control the medication administration.
2. This provides continuous blood levels of the opioid.
3. By waiting until symptoms are present, the child's blood level will drop, making it more difficult to control the pain.
4. Parenteral administration controls pain more effectively than oral medication as oral absorption may be modified by stomach activities. In addition, providing analgesics on a scheduled basis is preferred over prn.