Final answer:
A physician is likely to write a PRN (pro re nata) order for a patient with fluctuating pain levels. This allows the patient to take pain medication as needed, whether it's opioids for severe pain or NSAIDs and acetaminophen for mild to moderate pain, thereby customizing care and minimizing medication risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
To treat a client whose pain levels vary widely throughout the day, a physician would most likely write a PRN (pro re nata) order, which means 'as needed.' This type of prescription allows the patient to take medication according to their pain level and only when they require it, rather than on a fixed schedule. For instance, prescription opioids may be prescribed PRN for patients who experience varied pain intensities and for whom other medications have failed to provide adequate relief. Opioids have a high risk of addiction, so their PRN use allows for better control and minimization of the dosage.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, or acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol), might also be prescribed on a PRN basis, particularly if the pain is less severe and responds to these medications. This approach to pain management is crucial to customizing care and minimizing the risks associated with overmedication. The PRN order gives the patient the flexibility to respond to the fluctuations in their pain and seek relief when necessary, reducing the overall amount of medication consumed and the potential for side effects or dependency.