A nurse is assessing an older adult client who reports pain. Which of the following should the nurse recognize about the client's perception of pain?
Intensity of pain levels decrease as people age.
The client is less likely to respond to analgesics.
Pain is an expected finding for an older adult.
The client may under-report their pain intensity.
The Correct Answer is D
A. "Intensity of pain levels decrease as people age."
Pain perception does not necessarily decrease with age. Older adults experience pain similarly to younger individuals, but they may express it differently.
B. "The client is less likely to respond to analgesics." Older adults respond to analgesics, but they may be more sensitive to certain medications due to age-related physiological changes. Appropriate dosing and monitoring are essential.
C. "Pain is an expected finding for an older adult." Pain is not a normal part of aging. While some chronic conditions associated with aging can cause pain, it should always be assessed and treated appropriately.
D. "The client may under-report their pain intensity."
Older adults may under-report pain due to factors such as fear of being a burden, belief that pain is a normal part of aging, or concerns about medication side effects. Nurses should use appropriate pain assessment tools to evaluate and address their pain effectively.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "Do you have difficulty sleeping at night?" – While sleep disturbances are common in PTSD, this question assesses symptoms rather than support systems.
B. "How do you feel about the current status of your life?" – This question may provide insight into the client’s emotional state but does not directly assess their support systems.
C. "Have you noticed changes in your eating patterns?" – Changes in appetite can occur with PTSD, but this question focuses on physical symptoms rather than support systems.
D. "Are you comfortable discussing the disaster with your family or friends?" – This is the best choice because it directly assesses whether the client has a support system in place and feels comfortable relying on them for emotional support.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Rhythmic respirations." Normal, rhythmic breathing is not typically associated with pain. Pain may cause labored, irregular, or rapid breathing.
B. "Absent cry." The FLACC scale assesses crying as an indicator of pain. However, an absent cry does not suggest pain. A strong, continuous cry or moaning may indicate discomfort.
C. "Resisting care." Clients with pain often resist movement, care, or interventions due to discomfort or distress. This is a key indicator of pain in the FLACC scale (Activity or Consolability sections).
D. "Relaxed posturing." A relaxed posture suggests comfort, while pain often leads to rigid or tense positioning.
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.