The nurse appreciates the principal advantage in using patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) is that it:.
reduces the workload of the nurse, because it does not have to be checked often.
completely eliminates any pain the patient is experiencing.
eliminates the risk of adverse drug effects from the medication.
reduces patient anxiety about pain by giving the patient more control in its management.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) is a method of pain management that allows the patient to administer their own pain medication within specified limits, but it doesn't reduce the workload of the nurse. The nurse is responsible for setting up and monitoring the PCA pump, educating the patient, assessing their pain, and ensuring safety. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice B rationale:
PCA does not completely eliminate pain. It provides the patient with control over their pain relief by allowing them to self-administer medication within preset limits. However, it does not guarantee the complete absence of pain. Pain relief is provided within a safe dosage range, but some level of pain may still be experienced. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice C rationale:
PCA does not eliminate the risk of adverse drug effects entirely. The nurse must monitor the patient for signs of adverse effects, such as respiratory depression or sedation. While the patient has control over medication administration, there are still risks associated with opioid analgesics. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice D rationale:
The principal advantage of using patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) is that it reduces patient anxiety about pain by giving the patient more control over its management. This choice is correct because PCA empowers the patient to self-administer pain medication when needed, which can lead to better pain control and reduced anxiety. The nurse sets safe dosage limits and monitors the patient, ensuring safety while providing a sense of control.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Using heavy pressure on the cold pack for greater effectiveness is not the correct approach when applying a cold pack to an injured area. Applying excessive pressure can lead to tissue damage, frostbite, and can be uncomfortable for the patient. Cold packs should be applied with gentle, even pressure to avoid complications.
Choice B rationale:
Leaving the cold pack in place for over 30 minutes at a time is not recommended. Prolonged exposure to cold can also cause tissue damage, including frostbite. It is generally advised to limit cold pack applications to 20-30 minutes at a time to prevent complications.
Choice C rationale:
Preparing to apply heat instead if cold is not effective is not the appropriate action in this scenario. When a healthcare provider orders a cold pack application, it is essential to follow the prescribed treatment plan. Heat should only be considered if it is specifically ordered as an alternative treatment.
Choice D rationale:
Placing a towel between the pack and the skin is the correct approach to prevent patient injury when applying a cold pack. This helps to protect the skin from direct contact with the cold pack, reducing the risk of frostbite or cold-related injuries. It ensures a barrier between the cold pack and the patient's skin, providing a safe and comfortable application.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The primary care provider (PCP) is responsible for prescribing the PCA but does not typically program the PCA pump. The PCP may set the initial parameters for the PCA, such as the dose and lockout interval, but the actual programming and operation of the PCA pump is typically carried out by the nursing staff.
Choice B rationale:
Pharmaceutical companies manufacture and provide medications, including the medications used in PCA, but they do not program PCA pumps. Programming and administration of the PCA are nursing responsibilities.
Choice D rationale:
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN) can assist in the administration and monitoring of PCA, but they do not typically program the PCA pump. Registered nurses are usually responsible for the programming and operation of PCA pumps.
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