Which nursing action is appropriate when a patient requests pain medication during shift change?

• A. Call the previous nurse to verify then document administration for them
• B. Ask the client what medications they last received
• C. Discuss the situation with the nurse manager
• D. Administer morphine as prescribed

Answer: (B)

When a patient requests pain relief during shift change, the first step is to perform medication reconciliation by asking the patient what medications they last received, including the drug name, dose, route, and approximate time. This information is essential to determine if a dose is due, avoid duplicating a previous dose, and confirm alignment with the current order in the MAR or electronic record. It also engages the patient in their own care and provides accurate data for safe decision-making about whether to administer more analgesia.

Calling the previous nurse to verify and documenting for them delays care, and relying on another nurse’s note without patient input can lead to safety gaps. Administering morphine without confirming the last dose and current pain assessment risks overdose or adverse effects. Discussing with the manager isn’t needed for a routine PRN request. Focus on the patient’s report and the chart to guide safe, appropriate pain management.