When a patient with asthma who is on a budesonide hand-held inhaler reports difficulty, what should the nurse do?

Choice A reason: Teaching the patient to use guided imagery can be an effective pain management strategy, but it might not be the most immediate and reassuring intervention for a patient experiencing fear about postoperative pain. This approach is more useful as an additional technique rather than the primary intervention.

Choice B reason: Describing the type of pain expected with the patient's particular surgery can provide some insight into what to anticipate, but it does not necessarily alleviate fear or provide concrete strategies for managing pain. It might even increase anxiety by focusing on the details of the pain itself.

Choice C reason: Explaining the pain management plan, including the use of a pain rating scale, is the most effective intervention. This approach directly addresses the patient's concerns by providing them with a clear understanding of how their pain will be managed and controlled postoperatively. Knowing that there is a structured plan in place, with specific methods to assess and manage pain, helps build confidence and reduces fear. The use of a pain rating scale also empowers the patient to communicate their pain levels effectively, ensuring timely and appropriate interventions.

Choice D reason: Informing the patient that pain medication will be available is helpful, but it lacks the detail and comprehensive approach of explaining the entire pain management plan. Patients may still have concerns about how their pain will be assessed and addressed specifically.

Choice A reason: Asking the patient to try bearing weight on the injured ankle is not appropriate at this stage. Bearing weight can cause further injury or exacerbate the swelling and pain. The initial treatment should focus on reducing swelling and providing support.

Choice B reason: Elevating the ankle above heart level is appropriate because it helps to reduce swelling by promoting venous return and decreasing fluid accumulation in the affected area. Elevation is a standard first aid measure for managing acute injuries and swelling.

Choice C reason: Applying a warm moist pack to the ankle is not advisable immediately after an injury. In the acute phase, cold therapy (ice) is recommended to reduce swelling and pain. Warm therapy is more appropriate during the recovery phase, once swelling has subsided.

Choice D reason: Assessing the ankle's passive range of motion (ROM) may be necessary later, but not immediately upon arrival. The priority is to manage pain and swelling first. ROM assessments can be painful and might worsen the injury if conducted too soon.