For the past six hours, a postoperative male client has refused pain medication because he believed that he could "tough it out." When an opioid analgesic is administered, the client has difficulty obtaining a satisfactory level of comfort. Which action is best for the practical nurse (PN) to use in assisting this client to deal with his pain?
Dim the lights in the room and close the door.
Guide the client through slow, rhythmic breathing.
Turn the television on to the client's favorite show.
Obtain a prescription for a higher dose of pain medication.
The Correct Answer is B
This is the best action for the PN to use in assisting this client to deal with his pain because it provides a non-pharmacological method of pain relief that can enhance the effect of the opioid analgesic. Slow, rhythmic breathing can help the client relax, distract from the pain, and increase oxygenation and blood flow.
A. Dimming the lights in the room and closing the door may not be enough to help the client deal with his pain and may not address his psychological or emotional needs.
C. Turning the television on to the client's favorite show may not be effective in helping the client deal with his pain and may be distracting or irritating for him.
D. Obtaining a prescription for a higher dose of pain medication may not be necessary or appropriate for this client and may increase the risk of side effects or dependence. The PN should assess the client's pain level and response to the current dose before requesting a change in medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Correct Answer: B. Joint pain.
Choice B rationale:
Joint pain is the most common symptom experienced by individuals during a sickle cell crisis. The misshapen red blood cells can block blood flow to joints, leading to severe pain and inflammation. Joint pain is a hallmark sign of a sickle cell crisis, and managing pain is a critical aspect of caring for these patients.
Choice A rationale:
Decreased hemoglobin is not the expected symptom during a sickle cell crisis. A sickle cell crisis is characterized by sudden and severe pain due to the misshapen red blood cells blocking blood flow and causing tissue damage. While a sickle cell crisis can lead to anemia, the child experiencing the crisis would be more likely to describe pain and not specifically mention decreased hemoglobin.
Choice C rationale:
Infection is not a typical symptom experienced during a sickle cell crisis. While sickle cell disease can increase the risk of infections, the crisis itself primarily manifests as acute pain due to vaso-occlusion.
Choice D rationale:
Fatigue may be experienced by individuals with sickle cell disease, especially during or after a crisis, but it is not the most likely symptom they would describe during a sickle cell crisis. The hallmark symptom of a sickle cell crisis is severe pain.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
"I realize that my life must go on, but sometimes I wonder why.”
Choice A rationale:
This statement may indicate frustration with physical limitations, which is common in older adults, especially after surgery. It does not necessarily indicate a need for bereavement counseling.
Choice B rationale:
Difficulty remembering simple things can be attributed to normal aging processes or other factors not directly related to bereavement.
Choice C rationale:
Expressing a sense of wondering "why”. after the loss of a spouse suggests ongoing grief and a potential need for bereavement counseling to process feelings and find meaning in life after the loss.
Choice D rationale:
Depending on children who live close-by is a common support mechanism for older adults and does not directly indicate a need for bereavement counseling.
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