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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Decreased heart rate is not an anticipated finding in response to acute pain. Pain typically triggers sympathetic nervous system activation, leading to an increased heart rate as a physiological response to the stressor.
Choice B rationale:
Hyperactive bowel sounds are not typically associated with acute pain. Acute pain is more likely to induce a sympathetic response, which can lead to decreased gastrointestinal motility and hypoactive bowel sounds.
Choice C rationale:
Decreased blood pressure is not a common response to acute pain. Pain often leads to an increase in blood pressure due to the activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the release of stress hormones.
Choice D rationale:
Increased respiratory rate is the anticipated finding in response to acute pain. Acute pain can cause an increase in the sympathetic nervous system activity, leading to a higher respiratory rate as the body prepares for a fight-or-flight response. This increased respiratory rate helps oxygenate the blood and meet the potential increased demand for energy during stress.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
(Correct Choice) Checking pupillary response to light is a critical first step in the assessment of a client with multiple injuries following a motor vehicle crash. Pupillary changes can indicate neurological issues, increased intracranial pressure, or damage to the brainstem. Rapidly assessing pupil size, equality, and reactivity helps identify potential life-threatening conditions.
Choice B rationale:
Checking the client's response to questions about place and time is important but not the highest priority in this scenario. Neurological and physiological stability should be addressed first to ensure the client's overall well-being.
Choice C rationale:
Assessing capillary refill is valuable in assessing peripheral circulation and hydration status. However, it is not the primary concern when dealing with a client who has potentially sustained traumatic injuries, where neurological and intracranial issues need to be ruled out or addressed urgently.
Choice D rationale:
Evaluating chest expansion is relevant for assessing lung function and detecting potential injuries like rib fractures. However, given the context of a trauma client, focusing on neurological assessment takes precedence over respiratory assessment in the immediate term.
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