Prior to administering pain medication to an adult postoperative client, what information should the practical nurse (PN) obtain? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
Client's pain rating on a scale of 1 to 10: This information helps assess the client's current pain level and determine the need for pain medication. Time of the last administration of pain medication: This is important to avoid overdosing or administering pain medication too frequently. It helps ensure that pain medication is given at the appropriate time intervals. Effectiveness of the last pain medication administered: Understanding whether the previous dose provided relief or not helps guide the choice of the next medication or dosage. The other options are not directly related to the immediate decision of administering pain medication: Height and weight of the client prior to admission may be part of the client's medical history but are not typically required information just before administering pain medication. A history of pain medication use during the past year is important information but may be already documented in the client's medical records and not necessary to obtain immediately before administration.