The nurse is caring for a client with a history of cluster headache who awakens during the night with a severe stabbing headache. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
A)Start the prescribed PRN oxygen at 8 L/minute.
B)Put a moist hot pack on the client's neck.
C)Give the prescribed PRN acetaminophen.
D)Notify the client's health care provider immediately.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Acute treatment for cluster headache is administration of 100% oxygen at 8-12 L/min for 15 minutes. If the client obtains relief with the oxygen, there is no immediate need to notify the health care provider. Cluster headaches last only 60-90 minutes, so oral pain medications have minimal effect. Hot packs are helpful for tension headaches but are not as likely to reduce pain associated with a cluster headache.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client with a History