A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor. Which of the following nursing actions reflects application of the gate control theory of pain?
Turn the client onto her left side.
Massage the client's back.
Encourage the client to rest between contractions
Administer prescribed analgesic medication
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is B. Massage the client's back.
A. Turning the client onto her left side may be a comfort measure, but it is not specifically associated with the gate control theory of pain. It may help improve blood flow and relieve pressure but does not directly engage the gate control mechanism.
B. Massage the client's back is consistent with the gate control theory of pain.
According to the gate control theory, non-painful input (such as massage) can close the "gate" to painful input, reducing the perception of pain. Massage stimulates large-diameter nerve fibers, which can inhibit the transmission of painful signals.
C. Encouraging the client to rest between contractions is a general comfort measure but is not directly related to the gate control theory of pain.
D. Administering prescribed analgesic medication is a pharmacological approach to pain management and is not specifically associated with the gate control theory. Medications can act on pain receptors but do not engage the gate control mechanism.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Instructing the client to increase her respiratory rate to more than 42 breaths per minute may exacerbate hyperventilation and cause respiratory alkalosis. This is not the appropriate action in this situation.
B. Breathing into a paper bag is an outdated and potentially dangerous practice. It can lead to a buildup of carbon dioxide in the body and may have adverse effects on both the mother and the baby. It is not recommended.
C. Having the client tuck her chin to her chest is the correct action.
This maneuver helps decrease the respiratory rate and prevent hyperventilation. It promotes a controlled and appropriate breathing pattern during labor.
D. Administering oxygen via nasal cannula is not the first-line intervention for lightheadedness and tingling during labor. The client's symptoms are likely due to hyperventilation, and addressing the breathing pattern is more appropriate.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Hemoglobin (Hgb) of 20 g/dL is elevated, but this can be a normal finding in a newborn and does not necessarily require immediate intervention.
Choice B Reason:
Total bilirubin of 5 mg/dL is within the normal range for a 24-hour-old newborn.
Choice C Reason:
Blood glucose 30 mg/dL. A blood glucose level of 30 mg/dL is significantly lower than the normal range for a newborn. Hypoglycemia in a newborn can lead to neurologic complications, so it is important to report this result promptly for further evaluation and intervention.
Choice D Reason:
White blood cell (WBC) count of 20,000/mm³ is within the expected range for a newborn and is not a cause for immediate concern. Newborns often have higher WBC counts shortly after birth.
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