On the second postoperative day, a client who had a colon resection is starting to eat and ambulate with assistance. Although the client has a prescription for an oral analgesic, they request that the PCA containing morphine be continued for one more day due to fear of pain. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?
Measure urinary output to ensure renal functioning.
Administer the oral analgesic medication an hour before discontinuing the PCA pump.
Monitor for a depressed respiratory rate.
Teach about the need to progress to a high-fiber diet.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Measuring urinary output is important for monitoring renal function, especially when using medications like morphine, but it is not the most critical intervention in this context.
Choice B reason: Administering the oral analgesic before discontinuing the PCA allows for the medication to take effect, preventing breakthrough pain and addressing the client's fear of pain.
Choice C reason: Monitoring for a depressed respiratory rate is crucial when a patient is on morphine, but the priority is to manage pain effectively as the client transitions to oral analgesics.
Choice D reason: Education on dietary needs is important for long-term recovery, but immediate pain management is a higher priority in the postoperative period.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fat emboli are typically associated with long bone fractures and not commonly linked with dehydration or immobility.
Choice B reason: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common condition in immobile patients, and redness and swelling in the calf are classic signs.
Choice C reason: While infection can cause redness and swelling, it is usually accompanied by other signs such as fever, which is not mentioned here.
Choice D reason: Pulmonary embolism is a complication that can arise from DVT but would not be the direct cause of calf redness and swelling.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Offering supplemental formula feedings is not the first-line action for inverted nipples as it does not address the issue and may lead to nipple confusion, potentially complicating future breastfeeding attempts.
Choice B reason: Teaching about the use of a breast pump is beneficial for milk expression but does not directly assist with the immediate concern of latching issues due to inverted nipples.
Choice C reason: Using a breast shield can be helpful for mothers with inverted nipples. It can temporarily draw out the nipple, allowing the baby to latch on more easily. This tool acts as a bridge between the breast and the baby's mouth, facilitating breastfeeding while the mother works on long-term solutions for her inverted nipples.
Choice D reason: Encouraging the use of ice on the areola may temporarily stiffen the nipple, but it is not a recommended practice for addressing inverted nipples as it can cause discomfort and may not be effective in promoting a successful latch.

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