When assessing a client's pain, the nurse determines the location and intensity of the pain. To gather data about the quality of the pain, which action should the nurse take?
Ask the client to describe the pain experienced.
Provide the client with a visual analog scale.
Instruct the client in use of a numeric pain scale.
Gently palpate the area and observe the response.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Asking the client to describe the pain is the most direct way to gather information about the quality of the pain. This approach allows the client to express characteristics such as whether the pain is sharp, dull, burning, aching, throbbing, or stabbing.
B. A visual analog scale (VAS) is useful for assessing the intensity of pain, not the quality. The VAS typically involves a line with endpoints representing no pain and worst possible pain, where the client marks their pain level.
C. The numeric pain scale is designed to measure the intensity of pain on a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 indicates no pain and 10 represents the worst pain imaginable. Like the VAS, this scale assesses pain intensity rather than quality.
D. Palpation and observing the client's response can help assess the location and intensity of pain, particularly if there are physical findings associated with the pain. However, this method does not provide information about the pain’s quality, such as its character or nature.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. This option does not correspond to one of Erik Erikson's stages. Erikson's theory includes eight stages of psychosocial development, and this specific stage is not part of his framework. While depression is a relevant concern in older adults, the correct terminology and stage must be identified based on Erikson’s theory.
B. This is Erikson's eighth and final stage of psychosocial development, typically occurring in late adulthood. In this stage, individuals reflect on their lives and either achieve a sense of integrity and fulfillment or experience despair and regret. The behaviors of withdrawing from friends, crying often, and seeking increased contact with family members are consistent with feelings of despair, as individuals may struggle with reflecting on their lives and their sense of accomplishment.
C. This is Erikson's sixth stage, which occurs during young adulthood (approximately ages 18 to 40). In this stage, individuals focus on forming intimate relationships and avoiding isolation. The behaviors described are more characteristic of older adulthood rather than young adulthood, so this stage is not applicable to the client's situation.
D. This is Erikson's first stage, occurring in infancy (from birth to about 18 months). During this stage, the primary task is developing trust in caregivers and the environment. The client’s behaviors are not related to the issues of trust or mistrust from early childhood but rather reflect challenges faced in older adulthood.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Increasing dietary fiber and adding prune juice can help relieve constipation by improving bowel regularity. While this is an important step in managing constipation, it is not the first action to take without understanding the underlying cause or current status of bowel function.
B. Physical activity is important for bowel regularity, especially post-surgery. However, assessing physical activity should come after a more immediate evaluation of the client's bowel status. It is crucial to first determine if there are other underlying issues that need addressing before implementing dietary changes or increasing activity.
C. A digital examination can be necessary to identify fecal impaction, especially if other assessments suggest severe constipation or if the client has not had a bowel movement for several days. However, this is an invasive procedure and should be performed based on preliminary findings from non-invasive assessments.
D. Checking bowel sounds and abdominal tenderness is an essential first step in assessing the client's gastrointestinal status. It helps identify whether there is a lack of bowel movement due to a more severe issue such as bowel obstruction or if it is simply a case of constipation.
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