Question

The nurse is providing home care instructions to a client with chronic pain. Which items are appropriate for the nurse to include in the teaching session?

1) Maintaining adequate hydration
2) Administering pain medications by the intramuscular (IM) route
3) Using assistive devices
4) Eating a balanced diet
5) Having resuscitation equipment ready for use, if necessary

Answer 1

For a client with chronic pain, maintaining adequate hydration, using assistive devices, and eating a balanced diet are key home care instructions. Intramuscular pain medication is uncommon in home settings; oral or transdermal methods are preferred. Resuscitation equipment is not typically required in home management of chronic pain, unless there are specific risks associated.

Step-by-step explanation:

When providing home care instructions to a client with chronic pain, it is essential to focus on non-pharmacological and pharmacological pain management strategies that promote well-being and improve the quality of life. The following items would be appropriate for the nurse to include in the teaching session:

1. Maintaining adequate hydration is important for overall health and can affect pain perception. Well-hydrated tissues may respond better to pain stimuli, reducing pain intensity.
2. Using assistive devices can help a person with chronic pain perform daily activities with less discomfort and risk of injury, thereby improving functional ability.
3. Eating a balanced diet supports overall health, can reduce inflammation, and provide the body with the necessary nutrients to cope with chronic conditions.

Regarding item 2 from the question, pain medications are typically administered orally, transdermally, or, in certain circumstances, intravenously in a home setting rather than by the intramuscular (IM) route. It is more common for individuals with chronic pain to be managed with medications that maintain steady plasma levels, such as oral medications or patches.

Item 5, having resuscitation equipment ready for use, would only be necessary in specific clinical scenarios where there is a heightened risk of life-threatening reactions, which is not typical in the management of chronic pain at home.

If a dehydrated patient requires fluids, intravenous (IV) therapy with saline or other electrolyte solutions is often administered. The specific type of IV fluid used depends on the patient's individual electrolyte and hydration needs, as assessed by medical professionals.