A nurse is teaching a client about using a PCA device for postoperative pain management. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
You will have control of administering your own pain medication
The pain medication is delivered into your muscle
Your partner can push the PCA button for you if you are asleep
A large dose of pain medication is given with each injection
The Correct Answer is A
A) "You will have control of administering your own pain medication":
This statement accurately describes the function of a PCA (Patient-Controlled Analgesia) device, where the client has control over administering their own pain medication within preset limits. Empowering the client to manage their pain helps promote autonomy and individualized pain management.
B) "The pain medication is delivered into your muscle":
This statement is incorrect because PCA devices typically deliver medication intravenously, not into the muscle. It's important for the client to understand the route of administration to use the device effectively and safely.
C) "Your partner can push the PCA button for you if you are asleep":
Allowing someone else to activate the PCA button for the client can lead to overmedication and is not recommended. PCA devices are designed for the client to self-administer medication based on their own pain experience and need.
D) "A large dose of pain medication is given with each injection":
This statement is inaccurate because PCA devices are programmed to deliver a controlled dose of medication with each activation, usually within safe limits set by the healthcare provider. The doses are typically set to avoid overdosing while providing effective pain relief.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "It will be a change for you, but a normal lifestyle is still possible. What concerns you the most?": This response acknowledges the patient's feelings while offering reassurance that life can still be fulfilling after surgery. It also invites the patient to express their concerns, allowing the nurse to address specific worries and provide tailored support.
B. "How has your husband reacted to the news?": While understanding the patient's support system is important, this response does not directly address the patient's expressed feelings of disbelief and may not be the most immediate concern for the patient at this moment.
C. "Don't worry. Many patients have had this same surgery and learn to manage very well.": While meant to offer reassurance, this response may come across as dismissive of the patient's feelings of disbelief and anxiety about the upcoming surgery.
D. "You sound like you are in disbelief. Why do you feel this way?": This response acknowledges the patient's expressed emotion but may come across as confrontational or probing, potentially making the patient feel defensive. It's important to provide support and reassurance while inviting the patient to share their concerns in a non-threatening manner.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Pain level:
While assessing pain is important to determine the effectiveness of the pain management, it is not the immediate priority after administering an opioid.
B) Pulse oximetry:
Monitoring oxygen saturation is critical as opioids can depress respiratory function. However, it is indirectly related to the primary effect of the medication on the central nervous system.
C) Blood pressure:
Monitoring blood pressure is important as opioids can cause hypotension, but it is not as critical as monitoring the level of sedation and respiratory status.
D) Level of sedation:
This is the priority because opioids can cause significant sedation and respiratory depression. Assessing the level of sedation helps determine if the client is at risk of further complications like respiratory arrest. Over-sedation can be a precursor to more serious complications, making this assessment crucial.
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