In response to a parent requesting pain medication for a child post-Wilms' tumor removal, what should the nurse do first?

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In managing post-operative pain for a child, especially after a significant procedure like the removal of a Wilms' tumor, the first action should focus on accurately assessing the child's pain level. Using the Faces Pain Scale is particularly suitable for children who may not be able to articulate their pain adequately. This scale employs visual representations of faces to help children express their feelings about their pain, making it a developmentally appropriate tool for assessing discomfort in pediatric patients.

The accurate assessment of pain is critical as it informs the appropriate interventions and management plans. Understanding the child's level of pain not only helps in providing immediate relief but also guides any necessary adjustments in medication dosages, thus ensuring the child’s comfort and safety.

Once the pain is accurately assessed using the appropriate tool, further actions such as preparing to administer medication, documenting the pain report, and ensuring the timing of previous medications can be appropriately addressed. However, without a clear understanding of the child’s current pain level, these subsequent steps would not be optimally tailored to the child's needs.

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