Upon reassessment, if a patient's pain level increased to 7/10, which action should the nurse take?

Administering narcotic pain medication is an appropriate response to a patient's reassessment that shows an increased pain level of 7/10. This level of pain suggests that the patient may be experiencing significant discomfort that could impact their overall well-being and ability to participate in care and activities. It is essential for the nurse to address the patient's pain effectively and promptly, as unmanaged pain can lead to complications such as increased anxiety, decreased mobility, and prolonged recovery times.

As part of the nursing priorities, managing pain is crucial to improving patient comfort and facilitating healing. By administering the appropriate narcotic pain medication, the nurse can help to alleviate the patient's discomfort. This intervention should always be guided by the medication protocols established within the healthcare setting, the patient's medical history, and any potential contraindications.

In situations where a patient's pain level rises significantly, waiting to reassess in an hour would not be appropriate, as it could prolong the patient's suffering. Encouraging deep breathing can be a helpful adjunct in pain management but may not be sufficient as a standalone intervention for acute pain. Consulting with a physician might be necessary for other treatment options, but immediate action would typically be taken to manage the patient's pain effectively.