A nurse is planning to collect data on the pain level of a 3-year-old child. Which of the following pain rating scales should the nurse plan to use?
Visual analog scale.
FACES.
Word-graphic.
Numeric.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) is a pain rating scale that involves a straight line with one end representing "no pain” and the other end representing "worst pain imaginable.” The individual marks a point on the line to indicate their pain level. This scale may not be suitable for a 3-year-old child as it requires a certain level of cognitive and numerical understanding to make a meaningful assessment, which a young child may not possess.
Choice B reason:
The FACES pain rating scale is a visual tool that uses a series of facial expressions ranging from smiling to crying to help individuals, especially children, express their pain level. A 3-year-old child can easily point to the facial expression that best matches their pain experience, making it a suitable choice for this age group.
Choice C reason:
The Word-Graphic Scale is a pain rating scale that combines verbal descriptors with a visual representation of the pain intensity. It may include words like "no pain,” "mild pain,” "moderate pain,” and "severe pain” along with corresponding symbols. While it can be used with children, a 3-year-old might have difficulty grasping the abstract nature of the scale and correlating words with pain levels.
Choice D reason:
The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) requires the individual to rate their pain level on a scale from 0 to 10, with 0 being "no pain” and 10 being "worst pain.” Similar to the Visual Analog Scale, this scale might not be suitable for a 3-year-old child who may not fully understand abstract numerical concepts.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The nurse should not offer the child sips of clear liquids during a seizure. During a tonic-clonic seizure, the child's swallowing reflex may be impaired, and giving liquids could lead to aspiration or choking, causing further complications.
Choice B reason:
The nurse should not restrain the child during a seizure using both arms or any other means. Restraint can potentially lead to injury for both the child and the person attempting to restrain them. It is crucial to allow the child to move freely during the seizure to prevent harm.
Choice C reason:
Placing the child's head on a pillow is the correct choice. This positioning helps to protect the child's head from injury during the seizure. The pillow provides a cushioning effect, minimizing the risk of head trauma.
Choice D reason:
The nurse should not instruct the parent to give rectal diazepam to the child at the onset of the seizure unless specifically prescribed by the child's healthcare provider. Diazepam is a medication used to manage seizures, but its administration route and timing should be determined by the child's healthcare provider. Inappropriate use of medication can be dangerous and ineffective.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Obtaining vital signs is essential in assessing the child's overall condition, but it is not the first action the nurse should take in this situation. The priority is to address the immediate concern of difficulty breathing.
Choice B reason:
Stopping the IV infusion is the most critical action the nurse should take first. Difficulty breathing can be a sign of a severe allergic reaction, and if it is related to the IV cefuroxime, stopping the infusion will prevent further administration of the medication and possibly worsening the reaction.
Choice C reason:
Administering epinephrine IM is not the first-line action in this scenario. Epinephrine is used in severe anaphylactic reactions, but it should not be given without a proper evaluation of the situation and a clear indication for its use.
Choice D reason:
Monitoring intake and output is an important nursing intervention, but it is not the priority when the child is experiencing difficulty breathing. Addressing the respiratory distress should be the initial focus to ensure the child's safety and well-being.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today