A nurse is caring for a postoperative client who is awake, alert, and oriented. Which of the following methods should the nurse use as part of her pain management interventions to determine the intensity of the client's pain?

Visual observation for nonverbal signs of pain.

Vital sign measurement.

The client's self-report of pain severity.

The nature and invasiveness of the surgical procedure.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale:

Visual observation for nonverbal signs of pain can be useful, especially in patients who are unable to communicate verbally. However, this method is not as accurate or reliable as obtaining the client's self-report of pain severity, which directly allows the patient to express their experience.

Choice B rationale:

Vital sign measurement, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, can provide indirect information about a patient's pain level. However, vital signs can be influenced by various factors, including anxiety or other physiological responses. They may not always accurately reflect the intensity of pain and are not as specific as the client's self-report.

Choice C rationale:

The client's self-report of pain severity is the most reliable and accurate method for determining the intensity of pain. Pain is a subjective experience, and the client's self-report is crucial for effective pain management. Pain scales, such as numeric rating scales or visual analog scales, allow clients to describe their pain intensity in a standardized way.

Choice D rationale:

The nature and invasiveness of the surgical procedure are relevant factors to consider in understanding a patient's potential pain experience. However, this information alone is not sufficient for determining the current intensity of the client's pain. Pain levels can vary among individuals undergoing the same procedure due to differences in pain tolerance and perception.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice B rationale:

The nurse should avoid assessing the popliteal pulse bilaterally at the same time. The popliteal pulse is located behind the knee and is relatively deep. Applying pressure on both sides of the knee to assess this pulse simultaneously can obstruct blood flow to the lower extremities. This is a particularly important consideration for clients with compromised circulation, such as those with peripheral vascular disease. Assessing this pulse sequentially is a safer approach.

Choice A rationale:

Assessing the femoral pulse bilaterally at the same time is generally acceptable. The femoral pulse is located in the groin area, and assessing it bilaterally doesn't impede blood flow significantly.

Choice C rationale:

Assessing the brachial pulse bilaterally at the same time is generally acceptable. The brachial pulse is located in the upper arm, and simultaneous assessment is unlikely to cause circulatory compromise.

Choice D rationale:

Assessing the carotid pulse bilaterally at the same time is discouraged. The carotid arteries are located in the neck, and applying bilateral pressure here can lead to reduced blood flow to the brain, potentially causing syncope (fainting) or other adverse effects. It's safer to assess this pulse sequentially.

A. Volunteer to provide an inservice about infection control. B. Speak with the AP when he exits the room about the appropriate protocol. C. Provide the appropriate PPE to the AP. D. Notify the charge nurse about the AP's need for training.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Volunteer to provide an inservice about infection control.While providing an inservice about infection control is important, it is not the immediate priority. The nurse needs to address the current situation to prevent potential contamination and infection spread.

B. Speak with the AP when he exits the room about the appropriate protocol.Speaking with the AP about the appropriate protocol is necessary, but it should be done after ensuring the immediate safety of the client and others. Delaying action could result in exposure to infectious agents.

C. Provide the appropriate PPE to the AP.This action addresses the immediate risk of infection transmission. By providing the appropriate PPE, the nurse ensures that the AP can safely continue their duties without putting themselves or the client at risk.

D. Notify the charge nurse about the AP's need for training.Notifying the charge nurse is important for long-term improvement, but it does not address the immediate risk. The nurse must first ensure that the AP is properly equipped to handle the current situation safely.

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A nurse is caring for a postoperative client who is awake, alert, and oriented. Which of the following methods should the nurse use as part of her pain management interventions to determine the intensity of the client's pain?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A Medical-Surgical nurse is assessing a client's circulatory system. Which of the following pulse sites should the nurse avoid assessing bilaterally at the same time?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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