A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is about to undergo a thoracentesis. Which of the

following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the information?

a. "The machine is programmed to prevent you from administering more than a safe dose."

When reinforcing teaching about epidural PCA (patient-controlled analgesia) with a client in active labor, it is important for the nurse to inform the client about the safety features of the machine. By explaining that the machine is programmed to prevent the client from administering more than a safe dose, the nurse reassures the client that they have control over their pain relief while minimizing the risk of overdose.

Option b, "During medication administration, you will not be able to move your legs freely," is not an accurate statement regarding epidural PCA. While epidural analgesia may cause temporary weakness or loss of sensation in the lower body, the ability to move the legs freely is not necessarily completely impaired. The degree of mobility can vary depending on the dosage and specific characteristics of the epidural.

Option c, "This method of pain control will shorten the second stage of labor," is not a valid statement. Epidural PCA is primarily used for pain relief during labor and delivery but does not directly affect the progression or duration of the second stage of labor, which involves pushing and the delivery of the baby.

Option d, "This type of anesthesia commonly causes a postpartum headache," is also incorrect. While headaches can occur as a potential side effect of epidural anesthesia, they are not specifically associated with epidural PCA. Postpartum headaches can have various causes and are not exclusively related to the use of epidural PCA.

By emphasizing the safety features of the machine and explaining that it prevents the administration of excessive doses, the nurse ensures that the client understands the appropriate use of the epidural PCA for pain control during labor.

a . Provide a tour of the perioperative area prior to surgery.

The correct answer is a. Provide a tour of the perioperative area prior to surgery.

Explanation:

When caring for an adolescent scheduled for surgery, providing a tour of the perioperative area prior to the procedure is an important action for the nurse to take. Adolescents may experience fear and anxiety related to the unfamiliar environment and procedures associated with surgery. Providing a tour allows the adolescent to become familiar with the surroundings, equipment, and healthcare team, which can help alleviate anxiety and promote a sense of control.

Explanation for the other options:

b. Explain that anesthesia is a special type of sleep: While it is important to provide information about anesthesia to the adolescent, describing it as a "special type of sleep" may be misleading. Anesthesia is a medical procedure that involves more than just being asleep, and it is important to provide accurate information to the adolescent.

c. Keep medical equipment out of the client's sight: While it is important to create a comfortable and non- threatening environment for the adolescent, completely hiding medical equipment may not be feasible or necessary. Instead, the nurse should address any specific fears or concerns the adolescent may have and provide age-appropriate explanations and reassurance.

d. Wait until after surgery to explain the importance of coughing and deep breathing: It is important to provide preoperative education to the adolescent to promote their understanding and cooperation. Explaining the importance of coughing and deep breathing before surgery helps the adolescent prepare and participate in their own recovery. Waiting until after surgery may result in missed opportunities for early postoperative interventions.

In summary, providing a tour of the perioperative area prior to surgery helps familiarize the adolescent with the environment, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of control.