HESI Test Bank Medical Surgical Nursing Related

Review HESI Test Bank Medical Surgical Nursing related questions and content

Before selecting which medication to administer, which action should the nurse implement if a postoperative client reports incisional pain and has two prescriptions for PRN analgesia?

  • A. Compare the client's pain scale rating with the prescribed dosing.
  • B. Determine which prescription will have the quickest onset of action.
  • C. Ask the client to choose which medication is needed for the pain.
  • D. Document the client's report of pain in the electronic medical record.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When a postoperative client reports incisional pain and has two prescriptions for PRN analgesia, the nurse should first compare the client's pain scale rating with the prescribed dosing. This action ensures that the client receives the appropriate medication based on their pain level. Determining the onset of action or asking the client to choose the medication does not guarantee that the right medication is administered according to the pain intensity. Documenting the pain report is important but should not be the first action when deciding which medication to administer.