Questions and Answers
What type of pain experience can be characterized by a temporary increase in pain levels despite baseline stability?
What type of pain results from injuries or diseases affecting the somatosensory nervous system?
Which class of medications is considered safer and nonaddictive for treating mild to moderate pain?
Which is a common challenge associated with breakthrough cancer pain (BTCP)?
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Phantom limb pain is classified under which categories of pain?
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What is a key characteristic that differentiates acute pain from chronic pain?
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Which of the following examples is MOST likely to be classified as chronic noncancer pain?
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How does chronic pain impact psychological well-being compared to acute pain?
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Which statement is TRUE regarding cancer pain?
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What is a common characteristic of chronic pain as opposed to acute pain?
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What characterizes respiratory depression in opioid overdose?
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Which of the following opioids is classified as an agonist?
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What is the primary purpose of administering Naloxone (Narcan)?
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What is a key indicator of opioid toxicity?
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When is it essential for a nurse to check vital signs in relation to opioid administration?
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Which of the following statements about patient education on opioids is true?
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How is orthostatic hypotension defined?
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Which side effect might indicate opioid overdose during patient observation?
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What should be monitored to identify potential misuse of opioids?
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Which statement regarding agonist-antagonist analgesics is correct?
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Study Notes
Acute vs Chronic Pain
- Acute pain is protective, short-term, with identifiable causes linked to injuries or surgeries.
- Characterized by a sudden onset and a healing period; resolves as injury heals, typically within weeks.
- Patients often experience fear and anxiety due to anticipating quick relief.
- Chronic pain, lasting longer than 3 to 6 months, lacks a predictable resolution and identifiable cause.
- Associated with significant impact on a person's quality of life and is often viewed as a disease.
- Examples of chronic pain include arthritis, fibromyalgia, and peripheral neuropathy.
- Chronic pain may originate from an initial injury or ongoing conditions.
Cancer Pain vs Neuropathic Pain
- Cancer pain can manifest as either acute or chronic, frequently experienced in advanced cancer stages or during treatment.
- Guidelines for managing cancer pain encourage comprehensive treatment and multimodal approaches for effective pain relief.
- Breakthrough cancer pain (BTCP) refers to sudden pain spikes in patients with otherwise stable pain; it negatively affects quality of life.
- Neuropathic pain arises from peripheral nerve injuries due to various factors, impacting either peripheral or central nerves.
- Cancer pain typically results from tissue injury (nociceptive pain), while neuropathic pain stems from nerve damage.
Phantom Limb Pain
- Phantom limb pain is classified both as chronic and neuropathic pain.
- It manifests as discomfort or pain in a limb that has been amputated.
Education on Pain Medication - Opioid vs Non-opioid
- Non-opioid analgesics, like acetaminophen and NSAIDs, are preferred for mild to moderate pain due to lower addiction potential.
- Opioids are essential for moderate to severe pain management but carry risks of misuse and addiction.
- Monitoring patient response to opioid administration is crucial for preventing dependency or overdose.
- Two classes of opioids:
- Agonists (e.g., morphine, fentanyl) and agonist-antagonists (e.g., pentazocine).
- Patient education on medication administration, purpose, timing, and side effects is vital, with a focus on the teach-back method for understanding.
Opioid Toxicity
- Opioid toxicity presents with pinpoint pupils, respiratory depression, and decreased consciousness.
- Treatment primarily involves Naloxone (Narcan), the antidote for opioid overdose.
- Symptoms include bradypnea, slurred speech, and muscle weakness.
Orthostatic Hypotension
- Defined as a significant decrease in blood pressure when moving to an upright position.
- Symptoms may include dizziness or light-headedness, particularly in dehydrated or anemic patients.
- Vital signs should be measured supine, sitting, and standing to check for orthostatic changes.
- This condition increases fall risk, especially in older adults on antihypertensive medications.
Radiation, Convection, Evaporation, Conduction
- Body heat loss occurs through radiation, conduction, convection, and evaporation.
- Radiation: Heat transfer without direct contact can account for up to 85% of heat loss; increased by peripheral vasodilation.
- Conduction: Direct contact transmits heat; applying cold items increases heat loss.
- Convection: Heat loss via air movement; using fans enhances this process.
- Evaporation: Continuous heat loss occurs when liquids convert to gas, approximately 600-900 mL lost daily through skin and lungs.
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Description
This quiz explores the differences between acute and chronic pain, emphasizing the characteristics and causes of acute pain. Participants will learn about the protective nature of acute pain and its role in signaling injury or disease. Understanding these distinctions can help in managing pain effectively.
