A client with metastatic cancer of the pancreas has an advance directive that requests no aggressive treatment. The client is referred for hospice care. If there is a physician’s order for pain...

A client with metastatic cancer of the pancreas has an advance directive that requests no aggressive treatment. The client is referred for hospice care. If there is a physician’s order for pain medication every 3 to 4 hours as necessary, which action by the hospice nurse is most appropriate in order to provide the client with maximum comfort at this time?

1. Administer the medication every 3 hours

2. Ask the physician to prescribe a high dose

3. Give the medication immediately upon request

4. Give the medication when the pain is severe