NCLEX PN Practice Tests Related

Review NCLEX PN Practice Tests related questions and content

The home health hospice nurse visits a client who is newly prescribed extended-release oxycodone 40 mg orally, scheduled every 12 hours to treat severe chronic cancer pain. Which information is most important to reinforce to the client’s caregiver?

  • A. Administer the medication around the clock even if the client denies having pain
  • B. Avoid administering with immediate-release opioids to prevent respiratory depression
  • C. Change the dosage and frequency to 20 mg every 6 hours if breakthrough pain occurs
  • D. Request a tapered dose from the health care provider if pain decreases to prevent tolerance
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Around-the-clock dosing maintains pain control in cancer, preventing peaks and troughs. Combining with immediate-release opioids is common, dosage changes require provider orders, and tapering is less critical in terminal care.