Question

which nursing action does the nurse have to implement first when caring for a client in pain?

1. teach the client about the pain.
2. establish a trusting relationship with the client.
3. assess the client for physiologic signs of pain.
4. administer pharmacological agents as needed.

Explanation:

In nursing, the first step in caring for a client in pain is assessment. Assessment helps in understanding the nature, intensity, and underlying cause of pain. Without proper assessment, teaching, relationship - building, or administering medications may not be effective. Physiologic signs (like increased heart rate, blood pressure in acute pain) along with subjective assessment (using pain scales) are part of the initial pain assessment.

Answer:

1. Assess the client for physiologic signs of pain.