A client with chronic lower back pain has been taking ibuprofen PO twice a day for several months. Which assessment is most important for the nurse to complete?
Determine presence of abdominal pain.
Palpate volume of pedal pulses.
Assess back pain using numeric scale.
Evaluate ongoing sleep patterns.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Determine presence of abdominal pain: Chronic use of ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as ulcers or bleeding. Abdominal pain is a critical symptom that can indicate these serious side effects. Therefore, assessing for abdominal pain is the most important action to identify potential adverse effects related to prolonged NSAID use.
B. Palpate volume of pedal pulses: While assessing pedal pulses is important for evaluating circulation and potential peripheral vascular issues, it is not the primary concern related to the long-term use of ibuprofen. This assessment does not directly address the potential gastrointestinal complications of NSAID use.
C. Assess back pain using numeric scale: Although it is important to monitor the effectiveness of ibuprofen in managing back pain, this assessment does not address the potential side effects of prolonged use. Evaluating pain levels is useful for treatment efficacy but is secondary to monitoring for adverse effects.
D. Evaluate ongoing sleep patterns: While sleep patterns can be affected by pain or medication, they are not the most immediate concern regarding the side effects of long-term ibuprofen use. The potential gastrointestinal issues related to NSAID use take precedence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["37.5"]
Explanation
First, convert the grams to milligrams:
1 gram = 1000 milligrams
So, 4 grams = 4 x 1000 = 4000 milligrams
Now, calculate the infusion rate:
Infusion rate = Desired dose / Concentration
Infusion rate = 300 mg/hour / (4000 mg / 500 mL)
Infusion rate = 300 mg/hour x (500 mL / 4000 mg)
Infusion rate = 37.5 mL/hour
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Pulse rate:
While monitoring the pulse rate is important for assessing overall cardiovascular function, it is not the most immediate concern when a client becomes lethargic after receiving an opioid. Opioids are known to potentially cause respiratory depression, which is a more critical issue to address first.
B. Blood pressure:
Blood pressure changes can occur with opioid use, but in the context of sudden lethargy, the primary concern is to check for respiratory depression. This condition can lead to significant complications and requires immediate attention.
C. Temperature:
Temperature monitoring is important for identifying infection or other issues, but it is not the most relevant vital sign to assess immediately after noticing lethargy from opioid administration. Respiratory rate is more directly affected by opioids.
D. Respiratory rate:
Opioids can cause respiratory depression, which can lead to lethargy and other serious complications. Assessing the respiratory rate first is crucial to determine if the client is experiencing slowed or irregular breathing, which may require immediate intervention such as administering naloxone or providing supplemental oxygen.
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