A nurse is assessing a patient with Endometriosis.
What should be the primary focus of the nurse's assessment?

Choice A rationale:

Heavy menstrual bleeding is commonly associated with endometriosis.

The presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus can lead to increased bleeding during menstruation.

Choice B rationale:

Frequent urination is not typically associated with endometriosis.

While endometriosis can cause pelvic pain and discomfort, it does not directly lead to urinary symptoms like frequent urination.

Choice C rationale:

Severe constipation is not commonly associated with endometriosis.

Endometriosis primarily affects the pelvic area and reproductive organs, and it is not a direct cause of gastrointestinal symptoms like constipation.

Choice D rationale:

Dysmenorrhea, which refers to painful menstrual periods, is commonly associated with endometriosis.

The presence of endometrial-like tissue in the pelvis can lead to inflammation and pain during menstruation.

Choice E rationale:

Painful intercourse, known as dyspareunia, is commonly associated with endometriosis.

The presence of endometrial-like tissue in the pelvic area can lead to pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse.

Choice A rationale:

Administering prescribed medications is the most appropriate nursing intervention for managing severe pelvic pain in a patient with endometriosis.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and hormonal medications are commonly prescribed to alleviate pain and reduce the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.

These medications can help relieve pain and improve the patient's quality of life.

Choice B rationale:

Recommending immediate surgical intervention is not the first-line approach for managing pelvic pain in endometriosis.

Surgery may be considered if medical management with medications is ineffective or if there are complications such as ovarian cysts or extensive tissue involvement.

However, surgery is typically not the initial intervention for pain relief.

Choice C rationale:

Encouraging the patient to perform strenuous exercise is not recommended for managing severe pelvic pain in endometriosis.

Strenuous exercise can potentially exacerbate pain and discomfort in individuals with endometriosis.

Instead, gentle and low-impact exercises may be more suitable for improving overall well-being without worsening symptoms.

Choice D rationale:

Suggesting the use of herbal remedies is not the primary approach for managing severe pelvic pain in endometriosis.

While some patients may explore complementary therapies, such as herbal remedies, as part of their symptom management, these should be used cautiously and in conjunction with conventional medical treatments.

Herbal remedies alone are unlikely to provide sufficient pain relief or address the underlying cause of endometriosis.