Question

A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving morphine for daily dressing changes. The client tells the nurse, 'I don't want any more morphine because I don't want to become addicted.' Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

1) Explain to the client that the risk of addiction is low when morphine is used for short-term pain management.
2) Agree with the client's decision and discontinue the use of morphine.
3) Consult with the healthcare provider to explore alternative pain management options.
4) Educate the client about the importance of pain management and the benefits of using morphine as prescribed.

Answer 1

The nurse should take action option 3) and consult with the healthcare provider to explore alternative pain management options.

Step-by-step explanation:

In this situation, the nurse's priority is to ensure effective pain management while respecting the client's concerns about addiction. Option 1 may not fully address the client's fears and could potentially undermine the client's trust. Option 2, agreeing with the client and discontinuing morphine, may compromise the client's pain control without exploring alternatives. Option 4, while addressing the importance of pain management, may not alleviate the client's concerns about addiction.

By choosing option 3, the nurse takes a collaborative approach by involving the healthcare provider. This ensures a comprehensive assessment of the client's pain management needs and consideration of alternative interventions. The healthcare provider can explore options such as non-opioid pain medications, physical therapy, or other modalities to address the client's pain while minimizing the risk of addiction. This approach demonstrates a commitment to patient-centered care, where the client's preferences and concerns are actively considered in the decision-making process.

Furthermore, consulting with the healthcare provider aligns with the nurse's scope of practice, ensuring that any adjustments to the pain management plan are made in collaboration with the broader healthcare team. This approach promotes effective communication and coordination, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of care provided to the client.