A nurse is applying a cold compress for a client who has pain and minor swelling in a sutured laceration on the forearm. Which of the following assessments should the nurse use to determine whether the treatment is effective?
Asking the client to rate the pain
Having the client perform range-of-motion of the affected arm
Monitoring the client's pulse rate
Inspecting the site for reduced swelling
The Correct Answer is A
A. Asking the client to rate the pain: Pain rating provides a subjective measure of the intervention’s effectiveness in reducing discomfort.
B. Having the client perform range-of-motion of the affected arm: This assessment is not specific to determining the effectiveness of cold therapy; it is more related to mobility or rehabilitation.
C. Monitoring the client's pulse rate: While pain can affect pulse rate, this is an indirect and nonspecific measure of pain or swelling reduction.
D. Inspecting the site for reduced swelling: Swelling reduction can be an indicator of decreased inflammation, but it does not provide a direct assessment of the client’s pain levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Spirituality can increase depression: Spirituality often alleviates, rather than increases, depression.
B. Spirituality can increase feelings of hopelessness: Spirituality typically fosters hope and comfort.
C. Spirituality can increase emotional and psychological comfort. Spirituality often helps individuals find meaning, peace, and connection during end-of-life care, improving emotional and psychological well-being.
D. Spirituality can increase the desire to hasten death: Spirituality generally supports coping and a peaceful end-of-life experience rather than a desire to hasten death.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Observe the patient's facial expressions and body language for signs of discomfort: While observation is important, it doesn't provide a complete picture of the client's pain experience and may not capture all aspects, such as intensity or location.
B. Measure the patient's vital signs and note any changes: Vital signs are important but can be nonspecific indicators of pain and are not as reliable for assessing pain intensity or quality.
C. Review the patient's medical history for past pain management interventions and their outcomes: While this is useful, it does not directly address the client's current pain experience.
D. Ask the patient to describe the pain using a pain scale and provide details about its location, duration, and intensity. A comprehensive pain assessment requires the client's self-report to fully understand the pain's characteristics. A pain scale (e.g., 0-10) helps quantify the intensity, and asking about its location, duration, and type allows for a thorough understanding of the pain's impact.
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.
