A patient who has terminal cancer of the liver and is cared for by family members at home tells the nurse, “I have intense pain most of the time now.” The nurse recognizes that teaching regarding pain management has been effective when the patient
A. States that nonopioid analgesics may be used when the maximal dose of the opioid is reached without adequate pain relief
B. Uses the ordered opioid pain medication whenever the pain is greater than 5 on a 10-point scale
C. Agrees to take the medications by the IV route to improve effectiveness
D. Takes opioids around the clock on a regular schedule and uses additional doses when breakthrough pain occurs
Correct Answer: D. Takes opioids around the clock on a regular schedule and uses additional doses when breakthrough pain occurs
Option D: For chronic cancer pain, analgesics should be taken on a scheduled basis, with additional doses as needed for breakthrough pain.
Option A: Although nonopioid analgesics may also be used, there is no maximum dose of opioid. Opioids are given until pain control is achieved.
Option B: Taking the medications only when pain reaches a certain level does not provide effective pain control.
Option C: The IV route is not more effective than the oral route and the oral route is preferred.
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