After administering a pain medication, which intervention should a practical nurse include in the client's care plan?

The chosen intervention of implementing ongoing assessments for signs of shallow or slow breathing is vital after administering pain medication, particularly opioids or sedatives. Many analgesics can have respiratory depressant effects, leading to complications if not monitored properly. By continuously assessing the client's respiratory rate, depth, and overall oxygenation status, the nurse can identify any adverse reactions early and take appropriate actions to ensure the client’s safety. This proactive approach is crucial in managing potential side effects of pain medications, thereby enhancing the overall quality of care provided to the client.

While documenting the client's pain level and encouraging rest are important aspects of post-medication care, they do not address the immediate concerns regarding the respiratory effects of the medication. Administering more medication if pain increases also poses risks, as it may lead to further respiratory depression or overdose, making ongoing assessment the priority intervention in this context.