A nurse evaluating the effectiveness of an Aquathermia K pad for the leg is aware that the patient who has the least risk for burn injury from this device would be the patient with:.

Choice A rationale:

Bringing a newspaper or deck of cards does not directly relate to guided imagery, which is a technique used to help patients manage pain through visualization. It's important to provide interventions that align with the patient's expressed preference and pain management goals.

Choice B rationale:

Finding a focal point in the room is not directly related to guided imagery. While it may be helpful for relaxation in some cases, it's not a specific technique for guiding a patient through visualization to manage pain.

Choice C rationale:

Obtaining skin lotion and a towel for a back rub is not related to guided imagery, and it assumes the patient's preference without considering the patient's previously mentioned benefit from guided imagery.

Choice D rationale:

Reading from a script that helps the patient visualize a restful place aligns with the practice of guided imagery. This technique can be effective in helping patients manage pain by redirecting their focus and promoting relaxation. It's a suitable intervention based on the patient's past experience and preferences. .

Choice A rationale:

A patient with a decreased level of consciousness from a stroke may not be able to provide feedback or recognize discomfort or pain, which can increase the risk of burn injury when using a heating pad. This choice increases the risk rather than reducing it.

Choice B rationale:

A patient with neuritis secondary to diabetes has a decreased sensitivity in the affected area due to nerve damage. While this can be a challenging condition, it reduces the patient's ability to perceive heat and pain, making them less likely to realize if the heating pad becomes too hot. As a result, this patient has the least risk for burn injury when using the Aquathermia K pad.

Choice C rationale:

A severely sprained ankle is not related to the risk of burn injury from a heating pad. This choice is not relevant to the assessment of burn injury risk with the Aquathermia K pad.

Choice D rationale:

Impaired peripheral circulation can increase the risk of burn injury from a heating pad. Patients with compromised circulation have a reduced ability to dissipate heat, which can lead to localized overheating and potential burn injury. This choice increases the risk of injury. .