Question

The nurse is caring for a 15-year-old involved in a motor vehicle accident (MVA). The client is receiving patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) via an epidural for pain in the extremities due to bilateral compound leg fractures. Which statement is correct when teaching this adolescent how to manage pain in this manner?

Option 1:
"Press the PCA button whenever you feel anxious, regardless of pain."

Option 2:
"Only use the PCA when the pain becomes severe to conserve medication."

Option 3:
"You can request additional doses from the nurse if you think it's necessary."

Option 4:
"Ask your parents to administer the PCA to avoid overuse."

Answer 1

The correct statement to teach the adolescent how to manage pain through PCA via an epidural is Option 3: "You can request additional doses from the nurse if you think it's necessary."

Step-by-step explanation:

Option 3: "You can request additional doses from the nurse if you think it's necessary." is the correct statement when teaching this adolescent how to manage pain through patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) via an epidural. PCA allows the patient to self-administer pain medication within prescribed limits. By choosing Option 3, the patient can communicate their pain level and request additional doses if needed, ensuring they receive adequate pain relief.