Prior to administering pain medication to an adult postoperative client, what information should the practical nurse (PN) obtain? (Select all that apply.)

The correct answer is choice A and E.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should plan to ask the client what they are hearing. This is a therapeutic communication technique known as seeking clarification. It allows the nurse to gain more information and understand the client’s perspective. It can also help the client feel heard and validated, which can build trust and rapport.

Choice B rationale:

Telling the client their hallucinations are not real is not recommended. While it’s true that the hallucinations are not real, from the client’s perspective, they are very real and can be very frightening. Telling them otherwise can come across as dismissive and invalidating, which can damage the therapeutic relationship.

Choice C rationale:

Escorting the client to a group meeting may not be appropriate at this time. Given the client’s current state of agitation and confusion, they may not be able to participate effectively in a group setting. It could also potentially disrupt the group dynamic.

Choice D rationale:

Restraining the client should be a last resort and only used when the client is a danger to themselves or others. In this case, while the client is agitated and confused, they do not appear to be an immediate danger.

Choice E rationale:

Reducing excess stimulation around the client can be beneficial in this situation. Excess stimulation can exacerbate symptoms of psychosis such as hallucinations and agitation. By creating a calm and quiet environment, it can help reduce these symptoms and help the client feel more at ease.

Choice A rationale:

Relocating the sensor every 8 hours is not necessary when obtaining oxygen saturation readings unless there is a specific clinical reason to do so, such as skin irritation or poor perfusion at the sensor site. Frequent relocation can cause unnecessary disruption for the patient.

Choice B rationale:

Waiting 10 seconds after placing the probe before obtaining the oxygen saturation reading is not required. Modern pulse oximeters provide real-time readings, and there is no need to wait after placing the probe. The reading is usually stable within seconds.

Choice C rationale:

Choosing a finger with a capillary refill time of less than 2 seconds is an essential consideration when obtaining oxygen saturation readings. Capillary refill time is a measure of peripheral perfusion, and choosing a finger with good perfusion ensures accurate oxygen saturation measurements.

Choice D rationale:

Placing the sensor probe on the same extremity as an electronic blood pressure cuff is generally acceptable. However, it is crucial to ensure that the sensor does not interfere with the blood pressure cuff's function and that it is securely attached to the patient's finger for accurate readings.