A client with a past history of substance abuse and opioid addiction comes to the hospital after falling off a ladder. Upon assessment, the client reports his pain is a 9 out of 10 on the pain scale. The nurse should
chart “The client has a past history of addiction and is claiming he has severe pain.”
ask the client if his pain level is really as high as he states.
report to the physician the client is likely seeking drugs.
Number 1 is correct.
Rationale: Pain is subjective and is always what the client states. Therefore, the nurse should chart “The client states his pain is 9/10.” If the client mentions that he has a history of addiction, the information can be charted. With prior opioid addiction, clients may experience pain more intensely. Pain management should not be withheld and levels should not be questioned.
