After TURP, the nurse's first action when a patient reports pain is to review which document?

After TURP, the nurse's first action when a patient reports pain is to review which document?

• A. Postoperative orders
• B. The patient’s dietary plan
• C. The patient’s family medical history
• D. The current shift's assignment

Answer: (A)

Pain after TURP is managed according to the physician’s postoperative orders, which specify exactly what analgesics are prescribed, how often they should be given, the route, and any monitoring or restrictions. The nurse’s first step when the patient reports pain is to review these orders to determine the appropriate, safe, and timely pain relief—checking for the correct medication, dosing, potential interactions with the catheter or irrigation, and any PRN options. This ensures immediate, guideline-based relief and helps identify if further assessment or a change in therapy is needed. Other options—dietary plan, family history, or shift assignments—don’t address the immediate need for guided pain management after TURP.

Pain after TURP is managed according to the physician’s postoperative orders, which specify exactly what analgesics are prescribed, how often they should be given, the route, and any monitoring or restrictions. The nurse’s first step when the patient reports pain is to review these orders to determine the appropriate, safe, and timely pain relief—checking for the correct medication, dosing, potential interactions with the catheter or irrigation, and any PRN options. This ensures immediate, guideline-based relief and helps identify if further assessment or a change in therapy is needed. Other options—dietary plan, family history, or shift assignments—don’t address the immediate need for guided pain management after TURP.