Relias ENLEC Palliative Critical Care Practice Exam 2026 - Free Palliative Care Practice Questions and Study Guide

In this scenario, a patient with lung cancer is experiencing shoulder pressure rated at a 3 out of 10 on the pain scale. At this level of pain, the management goal is to provide effective relief while minimizing potential side effects from medications.

Acetaminophen is a suitable first-line option for mild to moderate pain, including musculoskeletal pain, which could manifest in a patient with lung cancer. It is generally well-tolerated and has a favorable side effect profile compared to opioids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In this case, providing acetaminophen at a dose of 650 mg can effectively manage the patient's pain and is particularly advantageous for someone with lung cancer, as they may be more susceptible to the side effects associated with stronger analgesics.

Moreover, while opioids like oxycodone and hydromorphone can be appropriate for more severe pain, they carry a higher risk of side effects, dependency, and complications, especially if the patient is at risk for respiratory issues related to their lung cancer.

Ibuprofen, although an effective NSAID for inflammation and pain, may not be the best choice if the patient has potential concerns regarding gastrointestinal side effects or if renal function is compromised, which can