For optimal pain management, when is the best time to administer prescribed analgesics for a client who had abdominal surgery 12 hours ago?
When the client exhibits physiologic symptoms of pain.
Prior to painful activities, such as bathing.
On a regular schedule around the clock.
Whenever the client requests it.
The Correct Answer is C
On a regular schedule around the clock. This is because when pain is present for more than 12 hours a day, analgesic dosages are best administered around the clock rather than on an as-needed basis.
Choice A is wrong because waiting for the client to exhibit physiologic symptoms of pain may delay the administration of analgesics and cause unnecessary suffering. Physiologic symptoms of pain are not always reliable indicators of pain intensity or quality.
Choice B is wrong because administering analgesics prior to painful activities may not provide adequate pain relief throughout the day. Painful activities may vary depending on the client’s condition and preferences.
Choice D is wrong because relying on the client’s request may not ensure optimal pain management. Some clients may be reluctant to ask for analgesics due to fear of addiction, side effects, or being perceived as weak.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A back massage is a type of cutaneous stimulation that can help reduce pain by activating the gate control theory of pain. Cutaneous stimulation is a non-pharmacological intervention that can be delegated to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) or nursing assistive personnel (NAP) under the supervision of a registered nurse.
Choice A is wrong because assessing pain status requires critical thinking and clinical judgment, which are skills that only registered nurses have. Pain assessment is not a task that can be delegated to UAP/NAP.
Choice B is wrong because administering a placebo is a type of pharmacological intervention that involves giving a substance that has no therapeutic effect. Placebos are unethical and ineffective for pain management and should not be used by any health care provider.
Choice C is wrong because reviewing a pain diary involves evaluating the patient’s response to pain interventions and adjusting the plan of care accordingly. This is a complex task that requires nursing knowledge and skills and cannot be delegated to UAP/NAP.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
“Have you had thoughts about killing yourself?” This is the best response because it directly assesses the client’s suicidal risk and shows empathy and concern.
The other choices are wrong because:
Choice B. “What can’t you go on anymore?” This is a vague and open-ended question that does not address the client’s immediate safety or emotional state.
Choice C. “Don’t think like that.
It’s not true!” This is a dismissive and invalidating response that does not acknowledge the client’s feelings or offer support.
Choice D. “Have you talked to your doctor about these feelings?” This is a deferring and avoiding response that does not explore the client’s situation or provide any intervention.
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