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 B
Explanation
A. Administering oxygen at 10 L/min via a nonrebreather mask is an important intervention, but changing the client's position is the priority action when late decelerations are observed. Oxygen administration can follow, but optimizing uteroplacental perfusion through changing position is crucial.
B. Changing the client's position is the correct first action.
Repositioning the client, particularly from a supine to a side-lying position, can help alleviate compression on the vena cava and improve blood flow to the uterus, reducing the likelihood of late decelerations.
C. Applying a fetal scalp electrode is not the initial action when late decelerations are noted. Repositioning the client should be attempted first to address potential issues related to uteroplacental perfusion.
D. Increasing the rate of the intravenous (IV) infusion might not directly address the issue of late decelerations. It's important to focus on maternal positioning first to improve blood flow to the uterus.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is A. Monitor the fetal heart rate (FHR) every hour.
A. Monitoring the fetal heart rate every hour is a crucial aspect of the plan of care during active labor. Continuous fetal monitoring helps assess the well-being of the baby and ensures timely identification of any signs of fetal distress.
B. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not a routine intervention during active labor. The bladder can be monitored using other non-invasive methods, and catheterization is generally reserved for specific indications.
C. Keeping four side rails up while the client is in bed is not recommended. It may limit the client's mobility and is not a standard practice during labor. Ensuring the safety of the client and promoting mobility is important.
D. Checking the cervix prior to analgesic administration may be necessary, but it is not a general action for every client in active labor. The need for cervical checks should be individualized based on the client's progress, preferences, and clinical indications.
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