Final answer:
The correct response is that only advanced practice registered nurses have the authority to prescribe medications. RNs must follow legal regulations and cannot prescribe medicine. OTC medications like NSAIDs and acetaminophen are available but must be used responsibly to avoid risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best answer a nurse can provide when asked by a client to prescribe medication for pain is: Only advanced practice registered nurses have prescriptive authority. This is because prescriptive authority is legally regulated, and traditional registered nurses (RNs) are not typically authorized to prescribe medications.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, and acetaminophen are types of over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. While these OTC medications can be recommended for mild pain, they must be used according to their label instructions to avoid risks such as liver damage, especially in cases where high dosages are consumed or when combined with alcohol. In cases where OTC medicines are insufficient, prescription medications, which can include higher doses of NSAIDs or opioids, can be considered. Opioids, while effective, pose a risk of addiction and other serious side effects and must therefore be used strictly under a doctor's supervision.