A nurse is assessing a child’s pain using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS)
The child rates their pain as ‘7’ on the scale.
Based on this rating, how should the nurse interpret the child’s pain intensity?
The child is experiencing moderate pain.
The child is experiencing severe pain.
The child is experiencing mild pain.
The child is not experiencing any pain.
The Correct Answer is A
The child is experiencing moderate pain.
Choice A rationale:
A rating of '7' on the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) typically indicates moderate pain.
The NRS is commonly used to assess pain in individuals who can communicate their pain level numerically.
The scale usually ranges from 0 to 10, with 0 indicating no pain and 10 indicating the worst possible pain.
In this context, a score of 7 suggests that the child is experiencing moderate pain, as they have rated their pain above the midpoint of the scale.
Choice B rationale:
A rating of '7' on the NRS does not indicate severe pain.
Severe pain would usually be associated with a higher score, often closer to the upper limit of the scale (e.g., 9 or 10)
Therefore, choice B is not the correct interpretation in this case.
Choice C rationale:
A rating of '7' on the NRS is higher than what is typically considered mild pain.
Mild pain would typically be represented by a lower score, such as 1 to 3 on the NRS.
Therefore, choice C is not the correct interpretation.
Choice D rationale:
A rating of '7' on the NRS clearly indicates that the child is experiencing pain.
Choice D, which states that the child is not experiencing any pain, is not the correct interpretation based on the provided pain rating.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The FLACC Scale (Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability) is a pain assessment tool specifically designed for children who cannot effectively communicate their pain verbally.
It assesses various aspects, including facial expression, leg movement, activity, cry, and consolability.
It is particularly suitable for infants and young children who may not be able to describe their pain in words.
Choice B rationale:
The Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale is designed for children aged 3 years and older and is based on facial expressions to assess pain intensity.
While it is suitable for this age group, it may not be the most appropriate choice for a 4-year-old child who has just undergone surgery, as it may not accurately capture the child's pain experience.
Choice C rationale:
The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) requires the child to assign a numerical value to their pain, typically on a scale from 0 to 10.
This may not be the most appropriate tool for a 4-year-old child, as they may have difficulty using numbers to describe their pain, especially immediately after surgery.
Choice D rationale:
The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) requires the child to mark their pain level on a line, which may also be challenging for a 4-year-old child.
This tool is typically used for older children and adults who can better understand and use a visual representation of pain.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
If the child rates their pain as 3 on the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), this numerical value represents mild pain.
The NRS typically uses a scale from 0 to 10, with 0 indicating no pain and 10 indicating the worst pain imaginable.
A rating of 3 falls on the lower end of the scale, signifying mild discomfort or pain.
Choice B rationale:
An NRS rating of 3 is not considered moderate pain.
It is more in the range of mild pain.
Moderate pain would typically be rated higher on the scale, such as 4 to 6.
Choice C rationale:
An NRS rating of 3 is not indicative of severe pain.
Severe pain would typically be rated much higher on the scale, around 7 or higher.
Choice D rationale:
An NRS rating of 3 does not represent no pain.
It indicates the presence of pain, albeit at a relatively mild level.
A rating of 0 on the NRS would signify the absence of pain.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.