Assessment of a Patient Nursing Practice Question
The nurse is reviewing the primary health care provider's prescriptions for a child who was admitted to the hospital with vaso-occlusive pain crisis resulting from sickle cell anemia. Which primary health care provider prescription should the nurse question?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Meperidine hydrochloride is contraindicated for ongoing pain management because of the increased risk of seizures associated with the use of the medication. The management of vaso-occlusive pain generally includes the use of strong opioid analgesics such as morphine sulfate or hydromorphone. These medications are usually most effective when given as a continuous infusion or at regular intervals around the clock. The remaining options are appropriate prescriptions for treating vaso-occlusive pain crisis.