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 A
Explanation
The correct answer is choicea. Teach the client to use a straw when taking the medication to reduce further tooth staining.
Choice A rationale:
Using a straw when taking liquid iron preparations helps minimize contact with the teeth, thereby reducing the risk of staining.
Choice B rationale:
While tooth discoloration can indicate that the iron is being absorbed, it is not a desired effect and should be managed to prevent cosmetic concerns.
Choice C rationale:
Assessing for mouth or gum pain and difficulty swallowing is important but not directly related to the issue of tooth staining.
Choice D rationale:
Advising the client to withhold doses without consulting a healthcare provider could lead to non-compliance and inadequate treatment of iron deficiency.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A: Never scratch under the cast.
Choice A rationale:
It is important not to scratch under the cast because inserting objects can lead to skin injury and infection. If itching occurs, blowing cool air from a hair dryer into the cast is recommended.
Choice B rationale:
While mild swelling and some discomfort are common after a cast is applied, patients should not expect an increase in pain. Persistent or severe pain could indicate complications such as increased swelling, decreased blood flow, or pressure on nerves and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Choice C rationale:
Applying a cold pack to “hot spots” on the cast is not recommended as it can lead to moisture accumulation and skin problems. Instead, to manage swelling and discomfort, ice can be applied over the cast, covered with a thin towel, for 20 minutes every two hours while awake during the first 48 hours.
Choice D rationale:
Keeping the injured leg in a dependent position is not advised because it can increase swelling and pain. The affected limb should be elevated above the level of the heart to reduce swelling and promote healing.
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