HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

Which statement about managing pain in a terminally ill client is true?

1. Pain management should be minimized

2. Clients should be encouraged to tolerate the pain

3. Effective pain management is a priority

4. Pain medications should be avoided to maintain alertness

The correct answer is: Effective pain management is a priority

In the context of managing pain for terminally ill clients, effective pain management is a top priority. This is essential for improving quality of life at the end stages of life. Pain can be a significant issue for these clients, affecting their physical comfort, emotional well-being, and overall experience of their condition. Prioritizing effective pain management involves using appropriate interventions tailored to the individual's needs, which may include medications as well as non-pharmacological approaches. By addressing pain adequately, healthcare professionals can help ensure that clients are as comfortable as possible, enabling them to engage more fully with their loved ones and maintain dignity during their remaining time. The other statements reflect misconceptions about pain management in this context. Minimizing pain management and encouraging clients to tolerate pain contradict the principles of palliative care, which focus on relief from suffering. Avoiding pain medications to maintain alertness can also undermine the client's comfort, as the benefits of managing pain typically outweigh concerns about sedation when properly managed.