A nurse is caring for a client who is 24 hr postoperative following abdominal surgery. The client received an opioid analgesic 1 hr ago and now reports a pain level of 2 on a scale of 0 to 10. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Maintain the client on bed rest.
Apply a warm, moist compress to the incision area.
Administer an additional dose of pain medication.
Reposition the client.
The Correct Answer is D
Answer is: d. Reposition the client.
Explanation: Repositioning the client can help alleviate pain by redistributing pressure and promoting comfort. Since the client's pain level is relatively low (2 on a scale of 0 to 10), this non-pharmacological intervention is an appropriate initial action.
Choice a. is wrong because maintaining the client on bed rest is not an appropriate action for a pain level of 2. Instead, the nurse should encourage the client to mobilize and perform appropriate exercises to prevent complications related to immobility.
Choice b. is wrong because applying a warm, moist compress to the incision area might not be the best action for a client who is 24 hours postoperative, as it could increase the risk of infection and cause discomfort. Cold compresses are often used in the initial postoperative period to reduce swelling and promote comfort.
Choice c. is wrong because administering an additional dose of pain medication is not necessary at this point, as the client's pain level is relatively low. The nurse should consider non-pharmacological interventions first and reassess the client's pain level to determine the need for further pain relief.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The client's right arm should be immobilized to prevent dislodgment of the central venous catheter. The Trendelenburg position is not indicated in this situation and may increase the risk of complications. Active range of motion exercises of the right arm and frequent coughing can also increase the risk of catheter dislodgment.
Choice A, placing the client in the Trendelenburg position, is not the correct answer because it is not indicated in this situation and may increase the risk of complications.
Choice B, encouraging active range of motion exercises of the right arm, is not the correct answer because it can increase the risk of catheter dislodgment.
Choice D, instructing the client to cough frequently, is not the correct answer because it can increase the risk of catheter dislodgment.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Red streaks along the incision. This is a possible sign of infection and should be reported to the healthcare provider. A temperature of 37.2°C (99°F) is within the normal range and does not require reporting. Serosanguineous drainage at the incision site is normal within the first few days postoperatively. Hypoactive bowel sounds in all four quadrants can indicate ileus, which is a possible complication following abdominal surgery, but it is not an immediate concern and can be monitored unless other symptoms arise.
Choice A: A temperature of 37.2°C (99°F) is within the normal range and does not require reporting.
Choice B: Serosanguineous drainage at the incision site is normal within the first few days postoperatively.
Choice D: Hypoactive bowel sounds in all four quadrants can indicate ileus, which is a possible complication following abdominal surgery, but it is not an immediate concern and can be monitored unless other symptoms arise.
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