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.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Black, tarry stools: Celecoxib, a COX-2 inhibitor, can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, which can manifest as black, tarry stools. This is a serious adverse effect that should be reported.
B. Dry mouth: Dry mouth is not a common adverse effect of celecoxib. This is incorrect.
C. Bone pain: Bone pain is not a recognized adverse effect of celecoxib and may be related to the underlying osteoarthritis rather than the medication.
D. Polyuria: Polyuria is not associated with celecoxib. It is unrelated to the medication’s mechanism of action.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Determine the location of the pain. The nurse should first assess the client's pain, including its location, intensity, quality, and factors that alleviate or exacerbate it. This assessment is critical to determining the most appropriate intervention and evaluating the effectiveness of the treatment.
B. Reposition the client: Repositioning is a valid nursing intervention for managing pain caused by discomfort or poor positioning. However, it should not be the first action, as the nurse must first assess the pain to determine if repositioning alone is sufficient or if medication is necessary.
C. Review the effects of the pain medication: While reviewing the effects of the prescribed medication is important to ensure its appropriateness and safety, this step is part of preparation for medication administration. It is not the first action; assessment of the client's pain takes priority.
D. Administer the medication: Administering pain medication without assessing the client's pain is not appropriate. Pain management should be individualized, and assessment ensures that the prescribed medication is suitable for the client's current pain and condition.
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