A nurse is assessing the status of a patient who is sleeping.
Which assessment data indicate that the patient is most likely in stage 3 of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep?

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. .

Choice A rationale:

Keeping bright lights on in the room is not conducive to relaxation. Bright lights can be stimulating and may increase stress, which is counterproductive when trying to manage pain through relaxation techniques.

Choice B rationale:

Using relaxation techniques as a way to wake up in the morning is not the intended purpose of these techniques. Relaxation techniques are typically used to reduce stress, anxiety, and pain, especially when one is trying to rest or sleep.

Choice C rationale:

Tensing and relaxing individual muscle groups, starting with the toes and feet, is a common method for progressive muscle relaxation. This technique can help reduce muscle tension and promote overall relaxation. It is an effective approach to pain management.

Choice D rationale:

Trying to tense and relax all of the muscles of the body at the same time may be difficult for most individuals and is not a commonly recommended relaxation technique. It can be challenging to achieve the level of focus and control required for this method, and it may not be as effective as focusing on individual muscle groups.