A terminally ill patient with cancer is experiencing increased pain. Nursing implications used to care for this patient include which of the following?
a. Giving medications as needed
b. Using the World Health Organization three-step approach
c. Using a holistic approach to pain management
d. Holding regular doses to prevent life-threatening side effects
B
Administering analgesics to treat cancer-related pain requires applying principles different from those used to treat acute pain. The WHO (1990) has recommended a three-step approach to managing cancer pain. Therapy begins with NSAIDs and/or adjuvants and progresses to strong opioids if pain persists. Side effects of opioids such as nausea and constipation are treated aggressively so patients are able to continue using them. Patients usually become tolerant to their side effects, with the exception of constipation. For patients with cancer the aim of drug therapy is to anticipate and prevent or minimize pain. Therefore it is necessary to give required analgesic dosages regularly, even when pain subsides. Regular administration maintains blood levels for ongoing pain control.
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ANS:
Joseph Lister contributed to medical practice through the introduction of:
a. isolation of infected patients. b. iodine and alcohol use as disinfectants. c. the autoclave. d. aseptic technique.
A client is taking colchicine for gouty arthritis and furosemide (Lasix) for treatment of congestive heart failure. What should the nurse include in the medication teaching for this client regarding adverse reactions?
1. GI upset is common, and could be intensified. 2. The client should be monitored for signs of bleeding. 3. Skin rashes are common. 4. The client should call the physician if there is no improvement in gout symptoms.
Hot foods must be served at ____________________F or above, and cold foods must be ____________________F or below.
Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).