A nurse explains that endorphins are capable of reducing pain:

Choice A rationale:

This statement is not accurate and may confuse the client. In a Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA) system, a predetermined dose is delivered when the patient activates the device. The dose is usually controlled to prevent excessive medication administration.

Choice B rationale:

This statement is correct. The essence of PCA is that the patient has control over administering their pain medication within set limits or time intervals. The patient can self-administer doses when needed, ensuring effective pain management.

Choice C rationale:

Allowing the partner to push the PCA button for the patient is not recommended. PCA systems are designed to be controlled by the patient themselves to prevent potential overdosing. Involving someone else in the administration can lead to safety concerns.

Choice D rationale:

PCA systems do not deliver medication into the muscle. They typically deliver medication intravenously (IV) or subcutaneously. This statement is inaccurate and could lead to misconceptions about how the PCA system works.

Choice A rationale:

Placing electrodes on all four extremities is not the initial step in using a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator (TENS) unit. It may not be necessary for the specific pain management needs of the patient and can be uncomfortable or impractical.

Choice B rationale:

This is the correct initial step when starting TENS treatment. The nurse should adjust the settings to a level below the threshold at which the patient feels a tingling sensation. This ensures that the treatment is comfortable and safe for the patient. The goal is to provide pain relief, not to induce discomfort.

Choice C rationale:

Turning the unit on before attaching it to the patient is not advisable. It's essential to connect the electrodes to the patient first and then turn on the TENS unit. This sequence helps prevent accidental electrical stimulation before the device is properly set up.

Choice D rationale:

Applying conductive jelly to uncoated electrodes is a step in preparing the electrodes for use, but it should be done after attaching the electrodes to the patient's skin. This choice does not address the initial step in TENS treatment, which is setting the stimulation level. .