Which of the following statements is the most appropriate response to

Which of the following statements is the most appropriate response to a client’s statement, “I thought you could tell I was in pain”?

1. “How do you express a need for pain medication if not by asking?”
2. “I’m so very sorry; may I get you your pain medication right now?
3. “I don’t think it’s wise to assume I can effectively read your mind regarding the need for pain medication.”
4. “I will make a point of asking you to rate your pain at least every 2 hours, so this miscommunication won’t happen again.”

ANSWER

ANS: 4
Be sensitive to variations in communication styles. Some cultures feel nonverbal expression of pain is sufficient to describe the pain experience, whereas others assume that if pain medication is appropriate, the nurse will bring it; thus asking is inappropriate. The remaining options are not as effective at addressing the root of the problem or providing a possible solution.