Question

The nurse is caring for a 9-year-old one-day post-op appendectomy client. She is due to receive a dose of IV morphine. Her mother is at the bedside and asks why her daughter needs another dose of morphine when she received one just 4 hours ago. Which statement shows the nurse's understanding of pain management?

Option 1:
a) "It's important to give the medication as prescribed to prevent withdrawal symptoms."

Option 2:
b) "We're increasing the dose to speed up the recovery process."

Option 3:
c) "Pain management is more effective when medication is given on a fixed schedule."

Option 4:
d) "The previous dose was likely not effective, so we need to adjust the medication."

Answer 1

The nurse understands that pain management is most effective when morphine, a medication for severe pain post-surgery, is administered on a fixed schedule to maintain pain relief and support recovery.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse is caring for a 9-year-old one-day post-op appendectomy client who is due to receive a dose of IV morphine. The mother inquires why another dose is necessary so soon after the last. The correct response that indicates the nurse's understanding of pain management is, "Pain management is more effective when medication is given on a fixed schedule." This approach, known to be a fixed interval reinforcement schedule, ensures that the pain relief medication is administered consistently to maintain effective relief and recovery. Morphine is a powerful opioid often used to alleviate severe pain post-surgery, and while being cautious about potential addiction risks, it is important to prevent the pain from becoming unbearable which can hamper the recovery process. Dosage intervals are carefully calculated to ensure effectiveness without causing significant side effects or toxicity.