A nurse is caring for a client who has a fractured leg and rates their pain as 7 on a scale of 0 to 10. Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to administer?

A. Fentanyl: Fentanyl is a potent opioid analgesic appropriate for managing severe acute pain, such as a fracture rated 7/10. It acts on central mu-opioid receptors to alter pain perception and provide rapid, effective relief. Continuous assessment for respiratory depression, sedation, and hemodynamic changes is necessary when administering fentanyl. B. Hydrocodone: Hydrocodone is a moderate-strength opioid suitable for moderate pain. While it can be effective, severe acute pain like a fracture at a 7/10 may require a stronger opioid to achieve adequate analgesia. C. Acetaminophen: Acetaminophen is effective for mild to moderate pain but generally insufficient alone for severe pain associated with fractures. It lacks anti-inflammatory effects and may not provide timely relief for intense pain. D. Aspirin: Aspirin is a nonopioid analgesic with anti-inflammatory properties but is typically not used for acute fracture pain due to bleeding risk and limited potency for severe pain control.