What should a nurse do if a client expresses that their pain rating has increased?

When a client reports an increased pain rating, it is crucial for the nurse to reassess the client's condition and modify the pain management plan accordingly. This approach reflects a patient-centered care model, ensuring that the nurse is actively listening to the client's concerns and responding to their needs. By reassessing, the nurse gathers necessary information regarding the nature, location, duration, and intensity of the pain, which can inform necessary adjustments to the current management strategies.

Modifying the pain management plan might involve administering appropriate medications, employing alternative therapies, or consulting with other healthcare professionals to enhance pain relief and improve the client's comfort. This process not only addresses the immediate issue of increased pain but also fosters a therapeutic nurse-client relationship by validating the client's experience and demonstrating responsiveness to their needs.

In contrast, disregarding the complaint would dismiss the client's feelings and could lead to further discomfort and dissatisfaction with care. Simply documenting the complaint fails to address the pain itself and does not contribute to any pain management efforts. Consulting a physician immediately without prior assessment may not be necessary and can lead to delays in appropriate care and treatment, as the nurse's reassessment could provide adequate information for addressing the pain first. Thus, reassessing and modifying the pain management plan is the most appropriate and