Which action is most appropriate for a postoperative patient who reports moderate pain: administer analgesic as prescribed and reassess in 20 minutes; or other options?

• A. Continue monitoring without analgesic
• B. Administer analgesic as prescribed and reassess in 20 minutes
• C. Schedule for later
• D. Call the physician

Answer: (B)

Prompt, appropriate analgesia is essential in the immediate postoperative period. When a patient reports moderate pain, giving the prescribed analgesic promptly helps reduce the pain drive, which can lower heart rate and blood pressure, improve breathing and coughing, and support participation in early recovery activities. Reassessing in about 20 minutes checks that the medication is effective and allows you to watch for any side effects such as drowsiness or nausea. If the pain is not adequately controlled after reassessment, you can consider repeating the dose per the order or escalating if needed. Leaving pain unmanaged, delaying analgesia for later, or calling the physician immediately without a signal of escalation or potential complications would be inappropriate in this situation.