A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is receiving a spinal epidural to treat a herniated disc.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indicator of unrelieved pain?
Urinary retention
Constipation
Difficulty swallowing
Restlessness
The Correct Answer is D
Restlessness can be an indicator of unrelieved pain in a client who is receiving a spinal epidural to treat a herniated disc. Restlessness is often a manifestation of discomfort or agitation, which can be caused by inadequate pain management. When a client's pain is not adequately relieved, they may exhibit restlessness as they try to find a more comfortable position or seek relief from the discomfort.
Urinary retention (option A) is incorrect because it can be a side effect of certain medications used in pain management, such as opioids, but it is not a specific indicator of unrelieved pain. It is important to monitor for urinary retention as a potential complication of spinal epidural anaesthesia, but it is not directly related to pain relief.
Constipation (option B) is incorrect because it is another possible side effect of opioid medications, but it is not a specific indicator of unrelieved pain. It is important to address constipation as a potential adverse effect of pain management, but it is not a direct indicator of pain relief.
Difficulty swallowing (option C) is incorrect because it is not a common indicator of unrelieved pain in the context of a spinal epidural. It may be associated with other conditions or complications but is not specifically related to pain relief.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The nurse should intervene when the AP raises all four side rails on the client's bed. While it is important to ensure the client's safety and minimize the risk of falls, raising all four side rails can be considered a restraint and may not be the best practice for fall prevention. The use of physical restraints, including all four side rails, can lead to adverse outcomes such as entrapment, increased agitation, and decreased mobility.
A. Locking the wheels on the client's bed: This is an appropriate action to prevent the bed from rolling and ensure stability.
B. Clearing furniture from the path leading to the bathroom: This is a good practice as it creates a clear and safe path for the client to walk without obstacles.
C. Assisting the client to the bathroom every 2 hours: This is a proactive measure to prevent falls by ensuring regular toileting and minimizing the need for the client to get up and move independently.
It's important to promote mobility and independence for the client while ensuring their safety.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Epinephrine is a medication commonly used to treat severe allergic reactions, also known as anaphylaxis. One of the hallmark signs of anaphylaxis is difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Epinephrine works by constricting blood vessels, relaxing smooth muscles in the airways, and reducing swelling, which can help relieve the symptoms of respiratory distress. Epinephrine is not typically used to treat nausea, hyperglycemia, or hand tremors. Nausea can be caused by various factors and is usually managed with antiemetic medications.
Hyperglycemia, which refers to high blood sugar levels, is typically managed with appropriate diabetes management, including insulin or other glucose-lowering medications. Hand tremors can have different underlying causes, and their treatment depends on the specific etiology.
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