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 B
Explanation
The correct answer is B. Extend the leg and flex the foot.
Choice A rationale:
Massaging the calf and foot is not recommended as it could potentially dislodge a blood clot if one is present, which can be dangerous.
Choice B rationale:
Extending the leg and flexing the foot helps to relieve the cramp by stretching the muscles involved. This is a safe and effective method to alleviate muscle cramps.
Choice C rationale:
Checking the pedal pulse in the affected leg is important for assessing circulation but does not directly address the immediate discomfort of the cramp.
Choice D rationale:
Elevating the leg above the heart is generally used to reduce swelling and improve circulation but is not specifically effective for relieving muscle cramps.
: 3
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Reporting the incident to the family is not the first action the PN should take in this situation. It may be appropriate to inform the family later if necessary, but immediate action is needed to address the boundaries being crossed in the client's room.
Choice B rationale:
Requesting that the man get up and leave is not the first action the PN should take. This situation involves delicate and sensitive issues, and the PN should prioritize the client's privacy, dignity, and emotional well-being.
Choice C rationale:
The most appropriate first action is for the PN to exit the room and quietly close the door. This action respects the client's privacy and allows the couple to have some space and time to compose themselves.
Choice D rationale:
Asking when the nurse should return is not the first action to take. The PN needs to ensure the client's privacy and deal with the situation at hand discreetly. Later, the PN can discuss the incident with the client if necessary, or involve the appropriate authorities as per the facility's policy.
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