What is most important for the practical nurse (PN) to include when performing pain assessment after giving an analgesic?
Ask about elements of the pain experience.
Question the client about precipitating factors.
Locate where in the body the pain occurs.
Apply a pain scale to describe intensity.
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is choice D. Apply a pain scale to describe intensity.
Choice A rationale:
Asking about elements of the pain experience is important for a comprehensive pain assessment, but it is not the most critical aspect immediately after administering an analgesic. This step is more relevant during the initial assessment to understand the nature and characteristics of the pain.
Choice B rationale:
Questioning the client about precipitating factors can help identify what triggers the pain, which is useful for long-term pain management strategies. However, this is not the primary focus after giving an analgesic, as the immediate goal is to evaluate the effectiveness of the pain relief.
Choice C rationale:
Locating where in the body the pain occurs is essential for diagnosing and understanding the pain’s origin. However, after administering an analgesic, the priority is to assess the change in pain intensity rather than its location.
Choice D rationale:
Applying a pain scale to describe intensity is crucial after giving an analgesic because it provides a quantifiable measure of the pain relief achieved. This helps in determining the effectiveness of the medication and guides further pain management interventions.
By focusing on the pain intensity using a standardized pain scale, the practical nurse can objectively evaluate the patient’s response to the analgesic and make informed decisions about any additional pain management needs.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A high blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level indicates impaired renal function, which can be caused by dehydration, infection, or nephrotoxic drugs. Chemotherapy can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of renal failure. The PN should report this finding to the charge nurse, as it may require fluid replacement, dose adjustment, or discontinuation of the chemotherapy.
The other options are not correct because:
A. Periodic nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy that can be managed with antiemetics, hydration, and dietary modifications. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
B. Decreased deep tendon reflexes may indicate hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, or peripheral neuropathy, which can be caused by chemotherapy or other factors. They are not as urgent as a high BUN level.
C. A platelet count of 135,000/mm3 or 135 x 10^9/L is slightly below the normal range, but not significantly low. Chemotherapy can cause thrombocytopenia, which increases the risk of bleeding. The PN should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, but this finding is not as urgent as a high BUN level.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This comment shows empathy, respect, and support for the client, without being intrusive or judgmental. The PN acknowledges the client's feelings and offers companionship, which can help reduce isolation and loneliness.
The other options are not correct because:
A. This comment may be perceived as coercive or dismissive of the client's feelings, as it tries to persuade the client to do something he does not want to do or enjoy.
B. This comment may be perceived as accusatory or interrogatory, as it questions the client's decision or motive for staying in his room.
C. This comment may be perceived as minimizing or invalidating the client's feelings, as it implies that the client should not be sad or that his family is doing enough for him.
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