A client who is 2 days postoperative for thoracic surgery is reporting incisional pain 2 hours after receiving pain medication. The client rates the pain as 5 on a pain scale of 0 to 10. After placing a call to the healthcare provider, which action should the nurse implement?

Provide at least 20 minutes of back massage and gentle efleurage.

Instruct the client to use guided imagery and slow rhythmic breathing.

Place a hot water circulation device, such as an aquathermia pad, on the operative site.

Tune to a television show or easy listening music to provide distraction.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

This postoperative nursing scenario requires the application of non-pharmacological pain management strategies and safety protocols. Knowledge of gate control theory and surgical contraindications is essential to address breakthrough pain effectively while awaiting provider orders without compromising the integrity of the surgical site.

Choice A rationale: While massage can be soothing, 20 minutes of back massage and effleurage is physically demanding and may not be feasible in an acute care setting. Additionally, positioning a thoracic surgery client for a back massage might cause more incisional discomfort.

Choice B rationale: Guided imagery and slow rhythmic breathing are effective non-pharmacological interventions that reduce the perception of pain by decreasing autonomic nervous system arousal. These techniques empower the client and provide immediate relief without risk of injury to the incision.

Choice C rationale: Applying heat to a fresh surgical site is contraindicated because it increases vasodilation, which can lead to increased edema, bleeding, and potential incision dehiscence. Thermal devices should never be placed directly over a fresh operative site without specific orders.

Choice D rationale: Distraction through television or music can be a helpful adjunct, but it is often less effective than active cognitive-behavioral strategies like guided imagery for a pain level of 5. It serves as a passive intervention rather than an active coping skill.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Starting with the most difficult questions can make the client uncomfortable and less likely to be open in the discussion.

Choice B reason: Beginning with less sensitive questions can help build rapport and make the client feel more comfortable discussing more intimate details later in the interview.

Choice C reason: Asking questions in a vague, non-specific format can lead to confusion and may not yield the necessary information.

Choice D reason: Sharing personal values is not appropriate as it can bias the interaction and may make the client feel judged or uncomfortable.

A. The medication is in short supply at the local pharmacy. B. The antibiotic has a limited shelf life after reconstitution. C. The healthcare provider should be notified of the discrepancy. D. The instructions may change over the course of therapy.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: While medication shortages can occur, this is not the typical reason for delivering a partial supply of medication for home health care.

Choice B reason: Daptomycin is an antibiotic that has a limited shelf life after it is mixed or reconstituted. This is why pharmacies often deliver only a portion of the doses to ensure the medication remains effective.

Choice C reason: Notifying the healthcare provider is necessary if there is a discrepancy in medication delivery that cannot be explained by standard pharmacy practices.

Choice D reason: Although instructions for medication administration may change, this is not the usual reason for a pharmacy to deliver a partial supply of medication.

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A client who is 2 days postoperative for thoracic surgery is reporting incisional pain 2 hours after receiving pain medication. The client rates the pain as 5 on a pain scale of 0 to 10. After placing a call to the healthcare provider, which action should the nurse implement?

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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