Exhibits
A nurse is caring for a 44-year-old male client who had an anterior-posterior spinal fusion 3 days ago. The client is experiencing uncontrolled pain and has not had a bowel movement since the surgery. Which actions should the nurse take to assess the client's progress?
Select all that apply.
Administer a stool softener
Ask the client about their normal bowel routine
Hold the client's next meal
Perform a digital rectal exam
Discontinue morphine
Correct Answer : A,B,D
. Administer a stool softener: This could be a good option to consider, as the client has not had a bowel movement since the surgery. However, the nurse should first consult with the healthcare provider before administering any new medications.
B. Ask the client about their normal bowel routine: This is a good action to take. Understanding the client’s normal bowel routine can provide valuable context for the current situation.
C. Hold the client’s next meal: This may not be necessary at this point. The client’s regular diet has been ordered by the provider, and there’s no indication of nausea, vomiting, or other symptoms that would necessitate holding meals.
D. Perform a digital rectal exam: This could be considered if there’s a concern about impaction or other complications. However, this should only be done after consulting with the healthcare provider.
E. Discontinue morphine: This is not advisable based on the information provided. The client is reporting uncontrolled pain, and morphine has been ordered by the provider for pain management. Any changes to pain medication should be discussed with the healthcare provider.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While the supervisor of the neurology unit may have expertise in neurology, they are not typically responsible for coordinating the progression of a patient’s care following a spinal cord injury.
Choice B rationale
The nurse in charge of risk management is typically responsible for identifying and evaluating risks in the healthcare setting. They are not typically involved in the direct management of a patient’s care.
Choice C rationale
The nurse case manager is specifically trained to coordinate and manage the care of patients with complex conditions, including spinal cord injuries. They work with the patient, family, and healthcare team to develop a comprehensive care plan.
Choice D rationale
While an adult nurse practitioner can provide a high level of care, they are not typically responsible for managing the progression of a patient’s care following a spinal cord injury.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Taking prescribed cortisone accurately is crucial for managing multiple sclerosis symptoms. Cortisone is a type of steroid that can reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system, helping to manage MS symptoms.
Choice B rationale
Using a walker when weakness occurs can be beneficial for patients with multiple sclerosis as it can help them maintain mobility and independence. However, it is not the most important instruction for the nurse to include in the discharge teaching plan.
Choice C rationale
Increasing daily intake of sodium in the diet is not recommended for patients with multiple sclerosis. High sodium intake can exacerbate symptoms of multiple sclerosis and may increase the risk of relapses.
Choice D rationale
Avoiding extreme environmental temperatures can be beneficial for patients with multiple sclerosis as heat can worsen symptoms. However, it is not the most important instruction for the nurse to include in the discharge teaching plan.
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