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 C
Explanation
This response allows the nurse to express genuine interest in the client's perspective and opens up a dialogue to understand the client's concerns or reasons for refusing to learn how to self-administer insulin. It provides an opportunity for the client to express their fears, doubts, or any barriers they may have. By actively listening to the client, the nurse can better address their concerns and provide appropriate education and support tailored to their individual needs.
The other options may come across as confrontational, judgmental, or unhelpful in establishing a therapeutic relationship with the client. It is important for the nurse to approach the situation with empathy, respect, and a non-judgmental attitude to foster effective communication and promote the client's engagement in their own care.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
When a central venous catheter (CVC) is inserted, it is essential to confirm proper catheter placement to ensure safe and effective administration of TPN and other medications. A chest x-ray is the gold standard method to verify the correct positioning of the CVC tip. It helps
determine if the catheter is appropriately positioned in the superior vena cava or another desired location, which minimizes the risk of complications such as pneumothorax or improper medication delivery.

The other options listed are not appropriate actions for the nurse to take in this situation:
A. Verifying the amount of TPN solution the client is receiving every 4 hours is a task related to ongoing monitoring of TPN administration, but it is not directly related to the preparation of the client for CVC insertion.
C. Using a clean technique when changing the catheter dressing is not appropriate for CVC insertion. A sterile technique is required during the insertion of a CVC to minimize the risk of infection.
D. Placing the client in Sims' position is not the appropriate position for CVC insertion. The client is typically placed in a supine or Trendelenburg position during the procedure to facilitate access to the central venous system.
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