What should a nurse do if a client states they have a hard time waiting for pain medication?

When a client expresses difficulty waiting for pain medication, implementing nonpharmacological relaxation strategies is an effective approach. This choice acknowledges the client's pain and discomfort while providing them with supportive management techniques to help alleviate their anxiety and pain level until the medication can take effect.

Nonpharmacological strategies can include techniques such as deep breathing exercises, guided imagery, distraction methods, or other relaxation practices that have been shown to help reduce the perception of pain and promote comfort. By employing these strategies, the nurse demonstrates empathy and understanding of the patient's predicament, offering immediate coping mechanisms that can enhance the overall care experience.

The other options are not conducive to effective patient care. Suggesting that the client manage without any medication disregards their pain and disrespects their experience. Disregarding the client's concerns entirely undermines the therapeutic nurse-client relationship and can lead to a lack of trust. Increasing the medication dosage immediately, without proper assessment or consideration of safety protocols, could lead to potential harm or side effects. Therefore, focusing on nonpharmacological relaxation strategies is the most appropriate action in this scenario.