Final answer:
When a patient complains of persistent abdominal pain after taking paracetamol, assess their condition, inform the physician, and avoid administering any medication not ordered. Always follow protocols and document your actions.
Step-by-step explanation:
If your patient is still experiencing abdominal pain one hour after administering oral paracetamol and there are no other analgesics ordered on their drug chart, the appropriate course of action would be to assess the patient's current condition. Evaluation should include checking the patient's vital signs, reviewing the pain's location, quality, and intensity, and noting any other symptoms that might indicate a more severe issue.
Next, you should notify the attending physician or healthcare provider about the patient's persistent pain and the current medication order. It's crucial to provide the doctor with a detailed report so that they can make an informed decision regarding further medication or required tests. Depending on your state's laws and your healthcare facility's protocols, you may need to follow certain procedures before administering additional pain relief.
Remember, safety is paramount; do not administer any medications that are not ordered by a physician. Always document all assessments, communications, and actions taken in the patient's medical record for continuity of care and legal purposes.