It's Called Pain Management

from Weird Nursing Tales by Tex

My patient was doing fine. She had some mild pain following her surgery, but nothing, she said, that required medication.

Then the family arrived.

Dr. Daughter: "When was the last time you gave her pain medication?"

Tex: "I haven't given her any this shift, she hasn't asked for any."

Dr. Daughter: "And when was the last time she got anything?"

Tex: "About 8 hours ago."

Dr. Daughter: "Your supposed to give her pain medicine every 4 hours. You're supposed to keep it in her system. It's called pain management."

Tex: "Her Surgeon ordered it only as needed, not scheduled around the clock."

Dr. Daughter: "Then he and I will need to have a discussion."