Which action should the practical nurse (PNA) prioritize for postoperative patient with a PCA (Patient- Controlled Analgesia) machine?
Coffee ground secretions drainage via nasogastric tube.
Nasogastric tube suctioning.
Assessing pain management response.
Ineffective pain management report:
The Correct Answer is C
This is the correct answer because it is the most important and relevant action that the PN should do for a postoperative patient with a PCA machine. A PCA machine is a computerized device that allows the patient to self-administer a preset dose of pain medication, usually an opioid, by pressing a buton. The PCA machine is attached to an intravenous (IV) line that delivers the medication directly into the bloodstream. The PCA machine can provide effective and individualized pain relief for postoperative patients, as well as increase their sense of control and satisfaction¹².
The PN should assess the pain management response of the postoperative patient with a PCA machine by monitoring their pain level, vital signs, oxygen saturation, sedation level, and side effects. The PN should use a valid and reliable pain scale, such as the numeric rating scale (NRS) or the visual analog scale (VAS), to measure the patient's pain intensity and relief. The PN should also check the settings and functioning of the PCA machine, such as the dose, lockout interval, and limit. The PN should document and report the patient's pain management response and any problems or complications with the PCA machine to the health care provider.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Moving the client away from the stimuli in the dayroom and providing a calm environment, it may help to de-escalate the situation and reduce agitation. This action prioritizes the well-being of the client and helps to maintain a safe and therapeutic environment for all individuals involved.
A. Administer an as-needed (PRN) medication for agitation: Administering medication should not be the first action taken in this situation. It is important to first assess the client's condition and attempt to de-escalate the situation through non-pharmacological means. Medication should be considered if other interventions are ineffective or if there is an immediate risk of harm to the client or others.
B. Notify the client's healthcare provider: While it may be necessary to notify the client's healthcare provider about the situation, it is not the first action that should be implemented. The immediate priority is to ensure the safety of the client and those around them by providing support and supervision.
C. Escort the client to a calm and quiet place: Escorting the client to a calm and quiet place can be a helpful intervention, but it may not be the first action to take. It is important to first address the immediate safety concerns and attempt to de-escalate the situation. Once the client is calm and cooperative, they can be escorted to a more suitable environment if necessary.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Edema, particularly if it is new or worsening, can be an indicator of preeclampsia, a potentially serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and organ dysfunction. Monitoring the client's blood pressure is crucial in assessing for signs of preeclampsia and determining the appropriate course of action.
B. Due date: The due date is an important piece of information for monitoring the progress of the pregnancy, but it is not directly relevant to the client's presenting symptom of edema. The focus should be on assessing for potential complications associated with edema, such as preeclampsia.
C. Fundal height: Fundal height is a measurement used to estimate fetal growth and position. While it is an important parameter to monitor during prenatal visits, it is not directly related to the client's edema. The priority in this situation is to assess for signs of preeclampsia or other complications, which may require assessing the blood pressure.
D. Gravida and parity: Gravida refers to the total number of pregnancies a woman has had, while parity refers to the number of pregnancies that have reached viability (20 weeks or more). While these pieces of information provide a background understanding of the client's obstetric history, they do not provide immediate insight into the current issue of edema. Assessing the blood pressure would be more relevant in this situation to identify any potential complications.
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