What question should a nurse ask to gather information about concomitant symptoms in a client with abdominal pain?

The question "What other discomfort do you experience?" is effective in gathering information about concomitant symptoms associated with abdominal pain. This approach helps the nurse identify any additional symptoms or complications that may be occurring alongside the abdominal pain, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in appetite. Understanding these concomitant symptoms is crucial for forming a comprehensive overview of the patient's condition and can significantly aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.

In contrast, while asking about pain severity or onset can provide valuable information regarding the characteristics of pain itself, they do not specifically elicit information about accompanying symptoms that might provide insights into the underlying cause. Similarly, inquiring about medications might offer insight into the patient's treatment history but typically would not directly address other discomforts experienced alongside abdominal pain.