Pre-Test 1 and 2: Introduction to Special Questions Based on Official NCLEX-RN[®]
37. An undesired consequence of acute pain is the progression to a chronic pain syndrome. The correct approach by a nurse to prevent chronic pain syndrome would be to:
. Adequately control acute pain.
. Give ordered opiates infrequently.
. Give pain medication only when requested by client.
. Prevent physical dependence on the prescribed drug.
Test-Taking Tip
Look for the answer that relieves acute pain.
Content Area: Adult Health, Pain Control; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Implementation; Cognitive Level: Comprehension; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies/Pharmacological Pain Management
Pre-Test 1 and 2: Introduction to Special Questions Based on Official NCLEX-RN[®]
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Answer 1 is correct because the most common cause of chronic pain syndrome is failure to control acute pain. Chronic pain syndrome consists of chronic anxiety and depression, anger, and changed lifestyle, all with a variable but significant level of genuine neurologically based pain. Answer 2 is incorrect because opiates are effective in the treatment of acute pain. Answer 3 is incorrect because pain medication should be offered as ordered. Some clients will not ask. Answer 4 is incorrect because physical dependence is determined when the drug is discontinued. It is expected in all clients who take opioids continuously. It is not addiction.