Question

A patient diagnosed with late-stage lung cancer is experiencing breakthrough pain and is asking for more pain medication. He was given morphine, an opioid-based drug, less than 3 hours ago. What should a nurse do, following Provision 1.3 of the ANA Code of Ethics?

1) give enough morphine to the patient to alleviate his pain
2) wait for further directives from the patient's oncologist
3) refuse to give more morphine due to risk of respiratory arrest
4) offer to give the patient a non-opioid pain medication instead

Answer 1

A nurse should assess a patient's pain, consider the risks of additional opioid administration, and consult with the healthcare provider to manage a patient's breakthrough pain ethically and safely.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient with late-stage lung cancer is experiencing breakthrough pain and requests additional pain medication, a nurse following Provision 1.3 of the ANA Code of Ethics should carefully assess the patient's pain and symptoms and consult with the patient's healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate action. The nurse should not give more morphine without assessing the patient's current status and the potential risks, and they should not refuse additional medication without understanding the patient's needs and seeking further medical directives. Offering a non-opioid pain medication may be considered, but ultimately the course of action should be based on a combination of clinical judgment, patient needs, and consultation with the healthcare team.