The nurse performing a focused assessment on pain will assess: (Select all that apply.).

Choice A rationale:

The nurse recommends that normal sleep and rest patterns can best be acquired by suggesting that the patient exercises in the mornings. Morning exercise can help regulate the circadian rhythm and improve sleep-wake patterns. It helps to reset the internal body clock, making it easier to fall asleep at night. However, exercise should not be too close to bedtime, as it may have a stimulating effect.

Choice B rationale:

Taking a nap during the day may provide a short-term boost in alertness but is not recommended as the primary method to acquire normal sleep and rest patterns. Daytime naps should be brief (20-30 minutes) and should not interfere with nighttime sleep. Excessive daytime napping can disrupt the regular sleep cycle.

Choice C rationale:

Drinking wine is not a recommended approach for acquiring normal sleep and rest patterns. Alcohol consumption, especially in the evening, can disrupt sleep cycles and negatively affect the quality of sleep. It may lead to frequent awakenings during the night and contribute to sleep disturbances.

Choice D rationale:

Smoking cigarettes is not a recommended approach for acquiring normal sleep and rest patterns. Nicotine is a stimulant that can interfere with sleep by increasing alertness and heart rate. Smoking can contribute to sleep difficulties and should be avoided, especially close to bedtime. .

Choice A rationale:

Constipation is not a common adverse effect of pain medication administered by the epidural route. Pain medication primarily affects the central nervous system and does not typically impact the gastrointestinal system in a way that would lead to constipation.

Choice B rationale:

Hypoventilation is the correct answer. When opioids or other potent pain medications are administered by the epidural route, they can depress the respiratory center in the brain, leading to hypoventilation (slow or inadequate breathing). This is a critical concern and the most important adverse effect to monitor because it can lead to respiratory compromise or even respiratory arrest.

Choice C rationale:

Nausea can be a side effect of some pain medications, but it is not the most important adverse effect to monitor in a patient receiving epidural pain medication. Nausea can often be managed with antiemetic medications.

Choice D rationale:

Headache is not a common adverse effect of epidural pain medication. The administration of pain medication into the epidural space is localized to the spinal area and does not typically lead to headaches.