A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is receiving a spinal epidural to treat a herniated disc.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indicator of unrelieved pain?
Urinary retention
Constipation
Difficulty swallowing
Restlessness
The Correct Answer is D
Restlessness can be an indicator of unrelieved pain in a client who is receiving a spinal epidural to treat a herniated disc. Restlessness is often a manifestation of discomfort or agitation, which can be caused by inadequate pain management. When a client's pain is not adequately relieved, they may exhibit restlessness as they try to find a more comfortable position or seek relief from the discomfort.
Urinary retention (option A) is incorrect because it can be a side effect of certain medications used in pain management, such as opioids, but it is not a specific indicator of unrelieved pain. It is important to monitor for urinary retention as a potential complication of spinal epidural anaesthesia, but it is not directly related to pain relief.
Constipation (option B) is incorrect because it is another possible side effect of opioid medications, but it is not a specific indicator of unrelieved pain. It is important to address constipation as a potential adverse effect of pain management, but it is not a direct indicator of pain relief.
Difficulty swallowing (option C) is incorrect because it is not a common indicator of unrelieved pain in the context of a spinal epidural. It may be associated with other conditions or complications but is not specifically related to pain relief.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Document the client's behavior leading to the initiation of the restraints: Accurate and comprehensive documentation is essential in the client's medical record. This includes documenting the client's behavior or actions that necessitated the use of restraints. It is important to document the reason, duration, and type of restraint used.
Release the client's restraints every 2 hours or as per institutional policy: It is important to periodically release the restraints to assess the client's circulation, skin integrity, and overall well-being. Restraints should never be kept on continuously without intermittent release.
Check the client's status every 15 minutes: The nurse should closely monitor the client's vital signs, level of comfort, and any signs of distress or complications. Frequent assessment ensures early identification and intervention if any issues arise.
Obtain informed consent: While obtaining consent is necessary for many procedures or treatments, including the use of restraints, it is not applicable in situations where there is an imminent risk of harm to the client or others. The use of restraints in mental health units is based on legal and ethical guidelines, prioritizing the client's safety and the safety of others.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A.This statement reflects the client's emotional response to their condition, which is important to address, but it does not indicate a need for immediate medical intervention.
B.Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by the rapid buildup of skin cells, resulting in thick, red, scaly patches on the skin. Treatment for psoriasis often involves the use of topical medications that are applied to the affected areas. This is a good practice. Old medication should be removed before applying a new dose to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.
C.This is a reasonable practice as some fabric softeners may contain ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin, including the skin affected by psoriasis. Avoiding fabric softeners or using hypoallergenic alternatives can help reduce potential irritation.
D.Sunlight exposure can actually be beneficial for clients with psoriasis, as ultraviolet (UV) light can help reduce the growth of skin cells and alleviate symptoms. If the client is limiting their sunlight exposure, they might be missing out on a potential therapeutic benefit. However, it is important to balance sun exposure and avoid overexposure to prevent skin damage.
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