A client who had surgery yesterday tells the nurse, "I don't want to get out of bed because it hurts too much.” Which responses by the nurse are appropriate? (Select all that apply.)
"I understand how you feel, but staying in bed can cause complications.”
"You need to get out of bed at least three times a day to prevent blood clots.”
"Let me give you some pain medication and then we can try getting up.”
"Getting out of bed will help you heal faster and reduce your pain.”
"Why don't you want to get out of bed? Are you afraid of something?".
Correct Answer : C,D
Choice A reason:
This response is not appropriate because it does not acknowledge the patient's pain or offer any pain relief. It also sounds dismissive and unsympathetic to the patient's feelings. A better response would be to empathize with the patient and explain the benefits and risks of early mobilization in a respectful way.
Choice B reason:
This response is not appropriate because it does not address the patient's pain or provide any pain relief. It also sounds demanding and authoritarian, which may increase the patient's anxiety and resistance. A better response would be to collaborate with the patient and set realistic and individualized goals for mobility.
Choice C reason:
This response is appropriate because it acknowledges the patient's pain and offers a solution to reduce it. It also shows respect for the patient's autonomy and readiness by suggesting rather than ordering to get up. It also implies that the nurse will assist and support the patient during the activity.
Choice D reason:
This response is appropriate because it provides positive reinforcement and education to the patient. It explains how early mobilization can enhance wound healing and decrease pain by improving blood circulation, preventing complications, and restoring function.
Choice E reason:
This response is not appropriate because it sounds accusatory and judgmental. It may make the patient feel defensive or guilty for expressing their pain or reluctance. A better response would be to explore the patient's concerns and fears in a non-threatening way and provide reassurance and information as needed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Applying sequential compression devices (SCDs) to the lower extremities is the most effective nursing intervention in preventing DVT in a patient who had spinal surgery and is at risk for DVT. SCDs are pneumatic devices that inflate and deflate around the legs to promote venous return and prevent stasis of blood, which can lead to clot formation.
Choice B reason:
Massaging the calves and thighs gently is not recommended for a patient who had spinal surgery and is at risk for DVT. Massaging the affected area can dislodge a clot and cause a pulmonary embolism, which is a life-threatening complication of DVT.
Choice C reason:
Elevating the foot of the bed by 15 degrees is not an effective nursing intervention in preventing DVT in a patient who had spinal surgery and is at risk for DVT. Elevating the foot of the bed can increase venous stasis and impair circulation, which can increase the risk of clot formation.
Choice D reason:
Encouraging early ambulation and leg exercises is an effective nursing intervention in preventing DVT in a patient who had spinal surgery and is at risk for DVT, but not as effective as applying SCDs. Early ambulation and leg exercises can improve blood flow and prevent venous stasis, but they may not be feasible or safe for some patients who had spinal surgery, depending on their level of injury and mobility.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
The client reports numbness in his right leg. This is not a cause for immediate intervention by the nurse, because numbness is an expected effect of spinal anesthesia. Spinal anesthesia blocks the nerve impulses from the lower extremities, lower abdomen, pelvic, and perineal regions, resulting in loss of sensation and movement.
Choice B reason:
The client has a blood pressure of 90/60 mm Hg. This is not a cause for immediate intervention by the nurse, because mild hypotension is a common side effect of spinal anesthesia. Spinal anesthesia causes vasodilation and decreases the sympathetic tone, leading to reduced blood pressure. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs and fluid status, and administer vasopressors if needed.
Choice C reason:
The client complains of a headache when sitting up. This is a cause for immediate intervention by the nurse, because it may indicate a post-dural puncture headache (PDPH) PDPH is a complication of spinal anesthesia that occurs when the dura mater is punctured by the needle, causing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to leak and create a pressure gradient between the intracranial and spinal compartments. The nurse should assess the client's pain level, position the client flat or with a slight head elevation, administer analgesics and fluids, and notify the anesthesiologist.
Choice D reason:
The client has difficulty voiding after surgery. This is not a cause for immediate intervention by the nurse, because urinary retention is a common problem after spinal anesthesia. Spinal anesthesia affects the bladder function by inhibiting the micturition reflex and impairing the sensation of bladder fullness. The nurse should monitor the client's urine output, bladder distension, and fluid intake, and assist with catheterization if needed.
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