A practical nurse is assessing a client after a cardiac catheterization. The client reports discomfort at the femoral insertion site. According to standing orders, which action should the PN implement?

• A. Administer acetaminophen/codeine phosphate.
• B. Administer ibuprofen as needed.
• C. Apply heat to the site.
• D. Notify the physician before giving any analgesic.

Answer: (A)

Discomfort after a femoral catheterization is managed with analgesia that is authorized by standing orders, so providing pain relief promptly is appropriate. Acetaminophen combined with codeine offers effective pain relief without affecting platelet function, which helps reduce the risk of bleeding at the catheter site compared to NSAIDs. Ibuprofen, an NSAID, can impair clotting and increase bleeding risk, making it less suitable in this setting. Applying heat to the fresh femoral site can promote bleeding and edema, so it’s not recommended. Delaying analgesia by calling the physician isn’t necessary when standing orders authorize this medication. Use the approved analgesic to relieve pain and continue to monitor the insertion site for signs of bleeding or complications.