Final answer:
To alleviate pain in a postoperative patient, options include administering opioid analgesics such as morphine, oxycodone, or codeine; encouraging deep breathing exercises; and applying cold packs to the surgical site. Withholding pain medication to avoid dependency without medical advice is not recommended.
Step-by-step explanation:
To relieve pain in a postoperative patient, several actions can be taken. Administering opioid analgesics, such as morphine for severe pain, oxycodone for moderate to severe pain, and codeine in combination with acetaminophen for mild to moderate pain, is a common approach. These prescription medications are typically used under a doctor's supervision due to the risk of serious side effects and the potential for addiction, thus they must be used judiciously. Encouraging deep breathing exercises can also be a beneficial non-pharmacological method to manage pain. It helps by promoting relaxation and oxygenation, which can aid in the healing process. Applying cold packs to the surgical site may reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief. However, it is important never to withhold pain medication to avoid dependency without a physician's guidance, as proper pain management is crucial for patient recovery.