A nurse assesses a postoperative patient 2 days after chest surgery. What four findings indicate that the patient has inadequate pain control?
Bradypnea
Irritability
Tachycardia
Hypoglycemia
Poor cough effort
Drowsiness
Refusal to participate in physical therapy
Correct Answer : B,C,E,G
Choice A: Bradypnea
Bradypnea, or slow breathing, is not typically associated with inadequate pain control. It is more often related to the effects of certain medications, such as opioids, or underlying respiratory conditions. Inadequate pain control is more likely to cause increased respiratory rate (tachypnea) rather than decreased.
Choice B: Irritability
This is a correct answer. Irritability can be a sign of inadequate pain control. Pain can cause significant discomfort and distress, leading to changes in mood and behavior. Patients who are in pain may become irritable, anxious, or agitated.
Choice C: Tachycardia
This is another correct answer. Tachycardia, or an increased heart rate, can be a physiological response to pain. When a patient is in pain, the body’s stress response is activated, leading to the release of stress hormones like adrenaline, which can increase heart rate.
Choice D: Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is not directly related to pain control. It is more commonly associated with diabetes management, fasting, or certain medications. While it is important to monitor blood sugar levels, hypoglycemia is not a typical indicator of inadequate pain control.
Choice E: Poor cough effort
This is a correct answer. Poor cough effort can indicate inadequate pain control, especially after chest surgery. Pain can make it difficult for patients to take deep breaths or cough effectively, which is essential for preventing respiratory complications such as pneumonia.
Choice F: Drowsiness
Drowsiness is not typically a sign of inadequate pain control. It is more often a side effect of pain medications, particularly opioids. While it is important to monitor for excessive sedation, drowsiness alone does not indicate that pain is not being adequately managed.
Choice G: Refusal to participate in physical therapy
This is the final correct answer. Refusal to participate in physical therapy can be a sign of inadequate pain control. Pain can make movement and physical activity difficult and uncomfortable, leading patients to avoid necessary rehabilitation exercises. Effective pain management is crucial for encouraging participation in physical therapy and promoting recovery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Monitoring the CXR (chest X-ray) results is not directly related to assessing myelosuppression. A chest X-ray is typically used to evaluate the lungs and heart, and while it can help identify infections or other complications, it does not provide information about bone marrow activity or blood cell counts. Myelosuppression specifically affects the production of blood cells in the bone marrow, which is best assessed through blood tests like the CBC (Complete Blood Count).
Choice B Reason:
Monitoring the BMP (Basic Metabolic Panel), especially the sodium, potassium, and magnesium counts, is important for evaluating electrolyte balance and kidney function. However, it does not directly assess myelosuppression. Myelosuppression involves the suppression of bone marrow activity, leading to decreased production of blood cells, which is not reflected in electrolyte levels.
Choice C Reason:
Monitoring the CBC (Complete Blood Count), especially the neutrophil, platelet, and RBC (red blood cell) counts, is the most appropriate method for assessing myelosuppression. Myelosuppression results in decreased production of blood cells, including neutrophils (a type of white blood cell), platelets, and red blood cells. A CBC provides detailed information about these cell counts and helps identify conditions like neutropenia (low neutrophil count), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), and anemia (low red blood cell count), which are common consequences of myelosuppression.
Choice D Reason:
Monitoring the spinal fluid analysis is not relevant for assessing myelosuppression. Spinal fluid analysis is typically used to diagnose conditions affecting the central nervous system, such as infections, bleeding, or multiple sclerosis. It does not provide information about bone marrow activity or blood cell counts, which are the primary concerns in myelosuppression.
Correct Answer is True
Explanation
Choice A: True
The essential core of nursing practice indeed revolves around delivering holistic, patient-centered care. This approach integrates the art and science of nursing to ensure comprehensive care that addresses the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of patients. Holistic care involves thorough assessment and evaluation to understand the patient’s overall health status and needs. Nurses provide a variety of interventions, from administering medications to performing procedures, to support patient health and recovery. Additionally, patient and caregiver teaching is crucial for empowering individuals to manage their health effectively. Nurses also play a vital role as members of the interprofessional healthcare team, collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated and effective care.
Choice B: False
The statement that the essential core of nursing practice is not to deliver holistic, patient-centered care is incorrect. Holistic, patient-centered care is a fundamental principle of nursing practice. It emphasizes the importance of treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms of a disease. This approach ensures that care is tailored to the individual needs of each patient, promoting better health outcomes and patient satisfaction. By focusing on holistic care, nurses can address the diverse aspects of a patient’s well-being, including their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs.
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