Question

A client who is a gravida 3, para 3 had a cesarean section 1 day ago. She is being treated prophylactically for endometritis. She is complaining of abdominal cramping at a 6 on a pain level scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being the greatest amount of pain) and fears having her first bowel movement. These medications are prescribed and due to be administered now. Based on priority, in which order should the nurse administer the medications? Arrange the medications in the order that they should be administered. All options must be used.

A. Stool softener
B. Analgesic for pain
C. Antiemetic
D. Antibiotic for endometritis

Answer 1

The medications should be administered in the following order: first, the analgesic for pain relief; second, the antibiotic for prophylaxis against endometritis; third, the stool softener to aid with bowel movements; and finally, the antiemetic to prevent nausea.

Step-by-step explanation:

The order in which the nurse should administer these medications is important in addressing both the patient's immediate discomfort and the prevention of potential complications following a cesarean section. The first priority should be managing the patient's pain, as this can affect her overall condition and ability to cooperate with other aspects of care. Therefore, the analgesic should be given first.

1. Analgesic for pain - To mitigate the abdominal cramping and make the patient more comfortable.
2. Antibiotic for endometritis - To continue the prophylactic treatment and prevent infections.
3. Stool softener - To ease the fear of the first bowel movement and prevent straining, which can be painful and harmful post-surgery.
4. Antiemetic - To control any nausea and prevent potential vomiting which can cause strain on the surgical site.