A nurse is monitoring a postoperative client who is unable to respond to questions. Which of the following nonverbal behaviors should the nurse identify as an indication that the client is experiencing pain? (Select all that apply)
Restlessness
Clenching
Grimacing
Drowsiness
Groaning
Correct Answer : A,B,C,E
Choice A reason: Restlessness can be a sign of discomfort or pain, especially in a postoperative client. It may manifest as constant shifting or an inability to remain still, indicating that the client is trying to find a position that alleviates the pain.
Choice B reason: Clenching, such as tightly gripping the handrails of the bed or making fists, can indicate that the client is trying to manage pain or discomfort through tension in the muscles.
Choice C reason: Grimacing, or making a pained facial expression, is a clear nonverbal cue of pain. It often involves furrowing the brow, closing the eyes tightly, or contorting the mouth.
Choice D reason: Drowsiness is not typically a direct indicator of pain. It may be related to medication effects, fatigue, or the body's response to healing post-surgery. However, it does not specifically signal pain.
Choice E reason: Moaning, groaning, or making other vocal sounds can be a response to pain, particularly in clients who are unable to articulate their pain verbally due to sedation or other factors.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: The diaphragm of the stethoscope is used for high-pitched sounds such as breath sounds, bowel, and normal heart sounds. For the apical pulse, which involves listening to the heart's sounds, the bell of the stethoscope is often recommended, especially for lower-pitched sounds like murmurs.
Choice B reason: Counting the apical pulsations for a full minute is the correct action when assessing the apical pulse, particularly for clients on cardiovascular medications. This ensures accuracy in detecting any irregularities or changes in the heart rate that could be affected by the medications.
Choice C reason: The stethoscope should be placed gently against the client's skin. Pressing too firmly can distort the heart sounds, making it difficult to accurately assess the apical pulse.
Choice D reason: A Doppler device is not typically used for routine assessment of the apical pulse. It is more commonly used when pulses are difficult to palpate or auscultate, such as in cases of peripheral arterial disease.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Offering a beverage is a hospitable gesture but not the first step in taking a health history. The priority is to establish communication and trust.
Choice B reason: Confirming insurance coverage is important but not the initial step in the health history process. The focus should first be on the patient's immediate needs and concerns.
Choice C reason: Establishing a rapport with the patient is the first and most crucial step in taking a health history. It involves creating a comfortable and trusting environment for the patient to share personal health information.
Choice D reason: Asking the patient to disrobe and put on a gown may be necessary for a physical examination but is not the first step in taking a health history. The nurse should first establish a rapport with the patient.
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