A nurse is contacting the on-call healthcare provider about a patient who underwent a hysterectomy two days ago and is experiencing pain that is not alleviated by the prescribed opioid pain medication. Which statement constitutes the “Background” portion of the SBAR format for communication?
“I would like you to prescribe a different pain medication.”
“This patient underwent a vaginal hysterectomy two days ago.”
“The patient, D.A. Smith, has an aversion to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications.”
“This patient has allergies to morphine and codeine.”
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
This statement belongs to the "Request" portion of the SBAR format. It articulates a specific action the nurse wants the healthcare provider to take.
It's not part of the Background because it doesn't provide any historical or contextual information about the patient's condition.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is the correct choice for the "Background" portion of the SBAR format.
It provides essential background information about the patient's recent medical history, specifically the recent hysterectomy.
This information is crucial for the healthcare provider to understand the context of the current situation and make informed decisions about pain management.
Choice C rationale:
This statement provides additional patient information, but it's not the most relevant for the Background section in this context.
The patient's aversion to NSAIDs might be important for medication choices, but it doesn't directly address the current issue of pain management after a hysterectomy.
Choice D rationale:
This statement provides important information about the patient's allergies, but it's not the most relevant for the Background section in this context.
Allergies are crucial for medication safety, but they don't directly address the current issue of pain management or provide context about the patient's recent surgery.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Assessing the patient's adherence to the drug regimen is the most crucial first step in this situation. Here's a comprehensive explanation:
1. Significance of Adherence in HIV Treatment:
Viral Suppression and Disease Progression: Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is paramount in HIV management. It directly impacts viral suppression, preventing disease progression, and reducing the risk of opportunistic infections and complications. Non-adherence can lead to viral rebound, increased viral load, and potential disease advancement.
Primary Cause of Treatment Failure: Suboptimal adherence is the leading cause of treatment failure in HIV patients. It can result in:
Reduced effectiveness of ART Development of drug resistance Increased healthcare costs Increased risk of transmission
2. Rationale for Prioritizing Adherence Assessment:
Direct Link to Viral Load and Health Status: A sudden decline in health status and a significant increase in viral load strongly suggest potential non-adherence. Assessing adherence early on can:
Identify the root cause of the clinical deterioration
Inform timely interventions to address adherence barriers Prevent further complications
3. Assessing Adherence Thoroughly:
Non-Judgmental Approach: Creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment is essential for honest and accurate assessment.
Open-Ended Questions: Utilize open-ended questions to explore potential challenges and barriers to adherence, such as: Difficulties with medication schedules
Side effects Financial constraints Forgetfulness
Mental health concerns Substance abuse
Lack of social support
Objective Measures: Complement patient reports with objective measures like:
Pill counts
Pharmacy refill records
Medication Event Monitoring Systems (MEMS)
4. Addressing Adherence Barriers:
Tailored Interventions: Based on the assessment findings, develop individualized strategies to enhance adherence, such as: Simplifying medication regimens
Addressing side effects
Providing medication reminders
Offering counseling and support services
Connecting patients with resources
5. Reassessing and Monitoring:
Continuous Evaluation: Regularly reassess adherence and viral load to ensure treatment effectiveness and make adjustments as needed.
Conclusion:
While other options (B, C, D) may provide valuable information, prioritizing adherence assessment is critical to promptly identify and address potential adherence issues, optimize treatment outcomes, and prevent further health decline in HIV patients experiencing viral rebound.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale for Choice A:
Documenting and continuing to monitor is a crucial aspect of nursing care; however, in this scenario, it would not be the first action to take. The significant drop in blood pressure warrants immediate intervention to prevent potential complications.
While monitoring is essential, it does not actively address the underlying cause of the hypotension. Relying solely on monitoring could delay necessary interventions and potentially compromise patient safety.
It's important to balance monitoring with timely interventions to ensure optimal patient outcomes. In this case, calling for assistance takes priority over documentation and continued monitoring.
Rationale for Choice B:
Repeating the blood pressure in 15 minutes could delay critical interventions if the hypotension is severe. Timely action is crucial to maintain adequate tissue perfusion and prevent organ damage.
Waiting to recheck the blood pressure could potentially worsen the patient's condition and lead to adverse outcomes. It's essential to act promptly when a significant change in vital signs occurs.
Rationale for Choice D:
While notifying the primary healthcare provider is an important step, it may not be the most immediate action in this situation. The Rapid Response Team is specifically trained to handle acute patient deterioration and can provide timely interventions.
The Rapid Response Team can initiate life-saving measures, such as administering fluids or medications, while the primary healthcare provider is being notified. This ensures that the patient receives prompt and appropriate care.
Rationale for Choice C:
Calling the Rapid Response Team is the most appropriate first action in this scenario because it ensures a rapid and coordinated response to the patient's hypotension.
The Rapid Response Team can quickly assess the patient, initiate interventions, and potentially prevent further complications. They can also facilitate communication and collaboration among healthcare providers.
Early activation of the Rapid Response Team has been shown to improve patient outcomes in various clinical settings, including postoperative care.
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