A client in the surgical recovery area asks the nurse to bring the largest possible dose of pain medication available. Which action should the nurse implement first?

Choice A rationaleDetermining when the last dose was administered is an important step in managing a client’s pain. However, it should not be the first action taken when a client requests the largest possible dose of pain medication. The nurse first needs to assess the client’s current level of pain to determine the appropriate intervention.Choice B rationaleReviewing the history for past use of recreational drugs is an important part of a comprehensive pain assessment. However, it should not be the first action taken when a client requests the largest possible dose of pain medication. The nurse first needs to assess the client’s current level of pain to determine the appropriate intervention.Choice C rationaleAsking the client to rate the current level of pain using a pain scale should be the first action the nurse takes when a client requests the largest possible dose of pain medication. Pain is subjective and can only be accurately assessed by the person experiencing it. Using a pain scale helps the nurse quantify the client’s pain and guide appropriate interventions.Choice D rationaleEncouraging the client to use diversional thoughts to manage pain can be a helpful non- pharmacological pain management strategy. However, it should not be the first action taken when a client requests the largest possible dose of pain medication. The nurse first needs to assess the client’s current level of pain to determine the appropriate intervention.