A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is receiving a PCA pump following a hysterectomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indicator of unrelieved pain?
Urinary retention
Constipation
Difficulty swallowing
Clenched teeth
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
Urinary retention can be a side effect of opioids used in PCA, but it is not a direct indicator of unrelieved pain.
Choice B Reason:
Constipation is a potential side effect of opioid medications, but it does not directly indicate unrelieved pain.
Choice C Reason:
Difficulty swallowing is not a typical indicator of unrelieved pain but may be related to other factors such as postoperative effects or medication side effects.
Choice D Reason:
Clenched teeth can be an indicator of unrelieved pain in a client receiving patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). It suggests that the client is experiencing discomfort and may be trying to endure the pain rather than using the PCA pump to self-administer pain relief. Clients who are in pain may clench their teeth as a response to pain or discomfort.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Determining the client's level of consciousness is correct. Delirium is characterized by a sudden change in mental status, including altered consciousness, confusion, and impaired attention. Assessing the client's level of consciousness helps the nurse understand the severity of the condition and whether the client is experiencing any immediate risks.
Choice B Reason:
Administer an anxiolytic medication is incorrect. Medication administration should not be the first action because the nurse needs to assess the client's condition first to determine if medication is appropriate. Additionally, the underlying cause of the delirium should be identified and treated if possible.
Choice C Reason:
Keep lights on in the client's room is incorrect. While maintaining proper lighting can be important for safety, it is not the first action because it doesn't address the underlying cause or assess the client's level of consciousness.
Choice D Reason:
Encouraging visits from family members is incorrect. Involving family members can provide emotional support, but it's not the first action because the client's condition should be assessed and stabilized before involving others in care.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a. Verify the medication three times with the medication administration record.
When administering oral medications, the nurse should verify the medication three times with the medication administration record to ensure that the correct medication is being given to the correct client at the correct time. This is known as the "three checks" and is an important step in preventing medication errors.
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