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.
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Providing wound irrigation might be necessary during the dressing change, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. First, the nurse should ensure they have all the necessary supplies to prevent interruptions during the procedure.
Choice B rationale:
While avoiding accidentally removing the drain is important, it is not the first action the nurse should take. Ensuring that all supplies are gathered and ready will help facilitate a smooth and organized dressing change.
Choice C rationale:
Gathering supplies is the priority in this situation. Having all the needed supplies readily available ensures that the dressing change can be carried out efficiently and without unnecessary delays.
Choice D rationale:
Providing analgesic medication as ordered by the provider is important for the patient's comfort during the procedure. However, it should not be the first action the nurse takes. First, the nurse should ensure that they have all the necessary supplies to conduct the dressing change safely.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Hypotension is not an expected manifestation of hypoxemia during an asthma attack. Hypotension refers to abnormally low blood pressure. During an asthma attack, the body's response to hypoxemia is more likely to involve increased heart rate (tachycardia) as the heart attempts to compensate for decreased oxygen levels.
Choice B rationale:
Dysphagia is not directly related to hypoxemia during an asthma attack. Dysphagia refers to difficulty swallowing, which is not a typical respiratory manifestation. Hypoxemia in asthma is more likely to lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, and increased work of breathing.
Choice C rationale:
Peripheral edema is not a typical manifestation of hypoxemia during an asthma attack. Peripheral edema, or swelling in the extremities, can occur in conditions like heart failure but is not directly related to the airway constriction and reduced oxygen exchange seen in asthma attacks.
Choice D rationale:
Agitation is the correct choice. Hypoxemia, which occurs when there is a decrease in the oxygen levels in the blood, can lead to inadequate oxygen supply to the brain. This can result in neurological symptoms such as agitation, restlessness, confusion, and even loss of consciousness. Agitation is a manifestation of the body's attempt to cope with the lack of oxygen.
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