Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

A postoperative patient exhibits signs of pain but refuses medication due to addiction fears. What should the nurse communicate?

1. Acknowledge that the patient is entitled to refuse pain medications

2. Opioids have a low addiction rate in postoperative pain management

3. Admire the patient's stoicism

4. Acknowledge opioid addiction potential and offer alternative care

The correct answer is: Opioids have a low addiction rate in postoperative pain management

The most effective approach in this scenario is to acknowledge the potential risks of opioid addiction while providing reassurance regarding the management of pain. This approach allows the nurse to establish trust and validate the patient's concerns about addiction, which is a crucial factor in postoperative pain management. By recognizing the patient's fears about addiction, the nurse can foster an open dialogue and create an environment where the patient feels safe discussing their pain management options. This might lead to the exploration of multimodal pain management strategies, which could include non-opioid medications, physical therapy, or alternative therapies. Acknowledging the risk of addiction while also discussing the effectiveness and safety of opioids when used appropriately allows for informed decision-making. It emphasizes the importance of pain control in the postoperative recovery process and encourages the patient to take an active role in their care while addressing their fears. In contrast, simply stating that opioids have a low addiction rate does not address the patient's fears or concerns, which can lead to a lack of cooperation and a negative impact on their recovery.