A patient with terminal cancer–related pain and a history of opioid abuse complains of breakthrough pain 2 hours before the next dose of sustained-release morphine sulfate (MS Contin) is due. Which action should the nurse take first?
a. Use distraction by talking about things the patient enjoys.
b. Administer the prescribed PRN immediate-acting morphine.
c. Suggest the use of alternative therapies such as heat or cold.
d. Consult with the doctor about increasing the MS Contin dose.
ANS: B
The patient's pain requires rapid treatment and the nurse should administer the immediate-acting morphine. Increasing the MS Contin dose and use of alternative therapies may also be needed, but the initial action should be to use the prescribed analgesic medications.
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