For documenting vital signs, the following documentation made by the nurse indicates an understanding of the teaching:

Choice A reason: The CRIES pain scale is not suitable for a 10-year-old as this scale is designed for neonates, typically those who are 0 to 6 months old.

Choice B reason: A 3-year-old toddler would be better assessed with a pain scale that allows for their level of understanding and communication, such as the Faces Pain Scale-Revised.

Choice C reason: A 4-year-old preschooler can typically communicate their pain verbally or by using a faces pain scale, making the CRIES scale less appropriate.

Choice D reason: The CRIES pain scale is specifically designed for neonates and is appropriate for assessing pain in a 4-day-old infant who cannot verbally communicate their pain.

The correct answer is c. Asking the client to rate the pain. This is the most direct and reliable method to determine the effectiveness of a cold compress for pain relief.

Choice A Reason:

Having the client perform range-of-motion exercises of the arm: This statement is incorrect because it assesses mobility rather than pain or swelling. Range-of-motion exercises are typically used to evaluate joint flexibility and muscle strength, not the effectiveness of pain relief measures.

Choice B Reason:

Inspecting the site for reduced swelling: This statement is incorrect because, while it checks for swelling, it does not directly measure pain relief. Swelling reduction can be an indicator of decreased inflammation, but it does not provide a direct assessment of the client's pain levels.

Choice C Reason:

Asking the client to rate the pain: This is the correct choice because it directly measures the client's perception of pain. Pain is a subjective experience, and the most accurate way to assess it is by asking the client to describe or rate their pain. This method allows the nurse to gauge the effectiveness of the cold compress in providing pain relief.

Choice D Reason:

Monitoring the client's pulse rate: This statement is incorrect because pulse rate is not a direct indicator of pain or swelling reduction. While pain can sometimes cause an increase in pulse rate, it is not a reliable or specific measure of pain relief. Pulse rate can be influenced by various factors, including stress, anxiety, and physical activity.