The health care provider orders a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) machine to provide pain relief for a patient with acute surgical pain who has never received opioids before. Which nursing actions regarding opioid administration are appropriate at this time? (Select all that apply.)
Emphasize that their spouse may push the pain button when they are uncomfortable
Provide instructions on decreasing opioid doses by the second postoperative day.
Teach the patient about how analgesics improve postoperative activity levels.
Monitor for therapeutic and adverse effects of opioid administration.
Assess for signs that the patient is becoming addicted to the opioid.
Correct Answer : C,D
C. Education about the benefits of pain management, including how analgesics can improve postoperative activity levels by reducing pain and discomfort, helps to promote the patient's understanding and engagement in their own care.
D. Nurses should closely monitor the patient for both therapeutic effects and adverse effects of opioid administration when using PCA or any other opioid analgesic. Regular assessment allows for prompt identification and management of any complications or side effects.
A. Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) is designed for the patient to self-administer pain medication according to their own needs and pain levels.
B. Opioid dosing should be individualized based on the patient's pain level and response to the medication. Some patients may require ongoing opioid analgesia for more than two days postoperatively, while others may be able to transition to alternative pain management strategies sooner.
E. Concerns about opioid addiction should not be assumed in all patients, especially those who have never received opioids before. Instead, the focus should be on assessing the patient's pain levels, response to pain medication, and any adverse effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This technique helps to prevent pressure ulcers and assists in maintaining proper spinal alignment, which is essential after such a surgery.
B. Clear drainage on the spinal dressing is not typically expected and could indicate an infection or other complication.
C. Assisting the client to sit upright in a chair for extended periods is not standard practices immediately following spinal fusion, as these actions may put undue stress on the spine during the critical initial healing phase.
D. Elevating the client's legs while sitting are not standard practices immediately following spinal fusion, as these actions may put undue stress on the spine during the critical initial healing phase
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Repositioning the client regularly is an important intervention to prevent pressure ulcers and pressure points, especially when the client is immobilized in traction. Repositioning helps distribute pressure evenly on different areas of the body, reducing the risk of tissue ischemia and pressure-related injuries around the edges of the splint.
A. Lotions or moisturizers can increase the risk of skin breakdown and infection, especially when applied under medical devices such as splints or casts.
C. Removing the weights for a few minutes each hour is not necessary to prevent pressure points around the edges of the splint. Balanced skeletal traction is typically applied to maintain continuous traction force on the fractured femur for therapeutic purposes.
D. Applying a foot plate to the bed is not directly related to preventing pressure points around the edges of the splint. Foot plates are typically used to prevent foot drop and maintain proper alignment of the foot and ankle joints.
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