A client continues to report post-surgical incision pain at a level of 9 out of 10 after pain medication is given. The next dose of pain medicine is not due for another hour. What should the critically thinking nurse do first?
Offer to notify the health care provider after morning rounds are completed
Explore other options for pain relief
Discuss the surgical procedure and reason for the pain
Explain to the patient that nothing else has been ordered
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: This is not the correct answer because offering to notify the health care provider after morning rounds are completed is not the first action that the critically thinking nurse should take. The nurse should act promptly and advocate for the patient's pain management needs, rather than delaying the communication with the health care provider.
Choice B reason: This is the correct answer because exploring other options for pain relief is the first action that the critically thinking nurse should take. The nurse should assess the patient's pain level, location, quality, and contributing factors, and use a multimodal approach to pain management that includes pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, such as ice, heat, distraction, relaxation, or massage.
Choice C reason: This is not the correct answer because discussing the surgical procedure and reason for the pain is not the first action that the critically thinking nurse should take. The nurse should focus on alleviating the patient's pain, rather than educating the patient about the surgery. The nurse can provide information and reassurance to the patient after the pain is controlled.
Choice D reason: This is not the correct answer because explaining to the patient that nothing else has been ordered is not the first action that the critically thinking nurse should take. The nurse should not dismiss the patient's pain or imply that the patient has no other options for pain relief. The nurse should collaborate with the patient and the health care provider to find the best pain management plan for the patient.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Gradual loss of peripheral vision is a characteristic symptom of open-angle glaucoma, which is the most common type of glaucoma. It occurs when the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked, causing increased intraocular pressure and damage to the optic nerve.
Choice B reason: Gradual loss of central vision is more typical of age-related macular degeneration, which is a condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina. It is not a symptom of open-angle glaucoma.
Choice C reason: Sudden headache and nausea are signs of acute angle-closure glaucoma, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. It occurs when the drainage angle of the eye suddenly closes, causing a rapid rise in intraocular pressure and severe pain.
Choice D reason: Cloudy blurred vision is a symptom of cataract, which is a condition that causes the lens of the eye to become cloudy and opaque. It is not a symptom of open-angle glaucoma.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fall prevention is the most important safety measure for an elderly client with osteoporosis, as falls can result in fractures and other complications. The nurse should assess the client's risk factors for falls, such as impaired vision, balance, or mobility, and implement interventions to reduce them, such as providing adequate lighting, removing clutter, and using assistive devices.
Choice B reason: Pressure injury prevention is also important for an elderly client, but not as crucial as fall prevention for a client with osteoporosis. Pressure injuries are caused by prolonged pressure on the skin, especially over bony prominences. The nurse should reposition the client frequently, use pressure-relieving devices, and monitor the skin for signs of breakdown.
Choice C reason: Cognitive impairment prevention is not a specific safety measure for an elderly client with osteoporosis, although it may affect the client's ability to follow instructions and adhere to treatment. Cognitive impairment may be caused by various factors, such as dementia, delirium, or medication side effects. The nurse should assess the client's mental status, provide orientation and stimulation, and manage any underlying causes.
Choice D reason: Functional decline prevention is not a specific safety measure for an elderly client with osteoporosis, although it may affect the client's quality of life and independence. Functional decline may be caused by various factors, such as pain, weakness, or depression. The nurse should encourage the client to participate in physical and occupational therapy, promote self-care activities, and provide emotional support.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.