Question

A patient has returned from the operating room, recovering from repair of a fractured elbow, and states that her pain level is 6 on a 0-to-10 pain scale. She received a dose of hydromorphone just 15 minutes ago. Which interventions may be beneficial for this patient at this time? (Select all that apply.)

1. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
2. Administer naloxone (Narcan) 2 mg intravenously
3. Provide back massage
4. Reposition the patient
5. Withhold any pain medication and tell the patient that she is at risk for addiction

Answer 1

Non-pharmacological interventions such as TENS, back massage, and repositioning may benefit a patient with pain after surgery, but naloxone is only for opioid overdoses and withholding medication is not supportive.

Step-by-step explanation:

A patient who has returned from the operating room and is experiencing a pain level of 6 after receiving hydromorphone may benefit from non-pharmacological pain management interventions. Considering the recent administration of an opioid, a cautious approach should be adopted. Naloxone (Narcan) is inappropriate unless the patient is showing signs of opioid overdose, which include altered level of consciousness and respiratory depression. It is not used to treat pain or reduce opioid use in patients who aren’t showing signs of an overdose. Withholding pain medication and suggesting a risk of addiction immediately after surgery is not only unethical but unsupportive of the patient's current pain management needs. Therefore, beneficial interventions might include:

1. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), which can provide supplemental pain control without additional medication.
2. Provide back massage, which can offer comfort and may reduce tension that can contribute to perceived pain.
3. Reposition the patient, which may alleviate pain due to the current position and provide comfort.