Final answer:
A 50 mcg per hour Fentanyl patch could be an appropriate dose for chronic pain in an older adult patient, considering factors like opioid tolerance and previous pain medication use. The nurse must closely monitor the patient for signs of effectiveness and potential overdose, keeping in mind the opioid crisis and the risk of addiction.
Step-by-step explanation:
When managing chronic pain in an older adult patient with a Fentanyl patch, the nurse must be aware of the appropriate dosing for the individual. Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid analgesic, similar to morphine but significantly more powerful. It acts to reduce pain without loss of consciousness at therapeutic levels but can induce drowsiness and loss of consciousness at higher doses. Considering the patient's age, medical history, and the chronic nature of their pain, the prescribed dose must be carefully evaluated. An initial 50 mcg per hour Fentanyl patch could be appropriate depending on the patient's opioid tolerance and previous exposure to pain medications. However, it is essential to monitor the patient closely for signs of underdosing (such as persistent pain) or overdosing (such as excessive sedation or respiratory depression). Given the opioid crisis and the high potential for abuse and addiction with these medications, the nurse should ensure that the treatment plan follows current guidelines and that the patient's response to therapy is regularly assessed. The history of opioid over-prescription and misuse, especially in areas with a high elderly population like Florida, underscores the importance of caution and vigilance in prescribing and administering opioids.