A client has a prescription for a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS) unit for pain management during the postoperative period following a lumbar laminectomy. Which information should the practical nurse (PN) reinforce about the action of this adjuvant pain modality?
Pain perception in the cerebral cortex is dulled by the unit's discharge of an electrical stimulus.
An infusion of medication in the spinal canal will block pain perception.
A mild electrical stimulus on the skin surface closes the gates of nerve conduction for severe pain.
The discharge of electricity will distract the client's focus on the pain.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Pain perception in the cerebral cortex is dulled by the unit's discharge of an electrical stimulus: The TENS unit does not directly alter cerebral cortical processing. Its primary effect is at the spinal cord level, modulating pain signals before they reach higher brain centers.
B. An infusion of medication in the spinal canal will block pain perception: This describes epidural or intrathecal analgesia. Medication infusion is an invasive method, whereas TENS is noninvasive and works through electrical stimulation of peripheral nerves.
C. A mild electrical stimulus on the skin surface closes the gates of nerve conduction for severe pain: TENS works based on the gate control theory of pain. The electrical impulses stimulate sensory nerves, which inhibit the transmission of pain signals to the brain, effectively “closing the gate” and reducing perceived pain intensity.
D. The discharge of electricity will distract the client's focus on the pain: While some clients may perceive relief due to distraction, the primary mechanism is physiologic modulation of nerve conduction, not cognitive distraction.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Rinse soiled linen with water before sending it to laundry: Rinsing can increase the risk of splashing and exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Standard precautions recommend handling soiled linen carefully without pre-rinsing.
B. Place soiled linen in a leak-proof laundry bag: Using a leak-proof bag prevents contamination of the environment and protects staff from exposure to bloodborne pathogens. This aligns with standard precautions for handling potentially infectious materials.
C. Send soiled linen to laundry in a red biohazard bag: Red biohazard bags are reserved for sharps or regulated medical waste, not routine soiled linen, even if contaminated with blood.
D. Double bag soiled linen to be put in a biohazard box: Double-bagging in a biohazard container is unnecessary for standard contaminated linen. Proper containment in a leak-proof laundry bag is sufficient and follows infection control guidelines.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Repeat the heel stick for glucose in one hour: Delaying intervention to recheck glucose places the infant at risk for worsening hypoglycemia, which can lead to seizures or brain injury. Immediate corrective action is required to stabilize glucose levels.
B. Offer nipple feedings of 10% dextrose: Dextrose feedings are typically reserved for infants who cannot tolerate oral feeds or whose glucose does not improve with routine feeding. Initial management of mild neonatal hypoglycemia focuses on early and frequent feeding with breast milk or formula.
C. Begin frequent feedings of breast milk or formula: Early, frequent feeding is the first-line intervention for mild hypoglycemia in infants of diabetic mothers. It helps stabilize blood glucose by providing a steady carbohydrate source and prevents further decline without requiring IV therapy unless feeding is ineffective.
D. Assess for signs of hypocalcemia: Hypocalcemia can occur in infants of diabetic mothers but usually develops later, not within the first 30 minutes after birth. The current glucose level of 40 mg/dL indicates hypoglycemia.
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