Question

the nurse is caring for a client with stage iv non - small - cell lung cancer (nsclc) who reports severe back pain and difficulty walking. a bone scan revealed multiple lytic lesions in the vertebrae consistent with bone metastases. what is the nurses primary intervention to manage the clients pain? apply localized heat therapy to the affected area. administer prescribed nonsteroidal anti - inflammatory drugs (nsaids). encourage participation in physical therapy exercises. administer prescribed opioid analgesic medication.

Explanation:

The client has stage IV NSCLC with bone metastases causing severe back pain. Severe cancer - related pain, especially from bone metastases, is typically managed with opioid analgesics as they are more effective for moderate to severe pain. Localized heat therapy is more for mild muscle - related pain, NSAIDs are better for mild to moderate pain or inflammatory pain (not sufficient for severe cancer pain), and physical therapy exercises are for improving function, not primary pain management for severe pain.

Answer:

D. Administer prescribed opioid analgesic medication.