Final answer:
The nurse should first verify the last time the patient received morphine, then assess the patient's pain level before administering the next dose, ensuring it is appropriate and safe at the time of the request.
Step-by-step explanation:
Upon a patient requesting their next dose of morphine, the registered nurse (RN) on a hospital's med-surg unit should first verify the last time the patient received morphine. This involves checking the patient's medication administration record to ensure the correct dosing interval has passed and the patient is due for their next dose. If the patient is indeed due for their next dose, the RN should then assess the patient's pain level by asking them to rate their pain on a number scale before administering the medication. It is critical that the nurse ensures that administering morphine is safe and appropriate at the time of the request.
Contacting a physician for further instructions might be necessary if there's a discrepancy in the timing or dosage, if the patient's condition has changed significantly, or if there's any concern that requires clarification. The primary focus always remains on patient safety and adhering to proper medication administration protocols.