A nurse is caring for a client who is 24 hr postoperative following abdominal surgery. The client received an opioid analgesic 1 hr ago and now reports a pain level of 2 on a scale of 0 to 10. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Maintain the client on bed rest.
Apply a warm, moist compress to the incision area.
Administer an additional dose of pain medication.
Reposition the client.
The Correct Answer is D
Answer is: d. Reposition the client.
Explanation: Repositioning the client can help alleviate pain by redistributing pressure and promoting comfort. Since the client's pain level is relatively low (2 on a scale of 0 to 10), this non-pharmacological intervention is an appropriate initial action.
Choice a. is wrong because maintaining the client on bed rest is not an appropriate action for a pain level of 2. Instead, the nurse should encourage the client to mobilize and perform appropriate exercises to prevent complications related to immobility.
Choice b. is wrong because applying a warm, moist compress to the incision area might not be the best action for a client who is 24 hours postoperative, as it could increase the risk of infection and cause discomfort. Cold compresses are often used in the initial postoperative period to reduce swelling and promote comfort.
Choice c. is wrong because administering an additional dose of pain medication is not necessary at this point, as the client's pain level is relatively low. The nurse should consider non-pharmacological interventions first and reassess the client's pain level to determine the need for further pain relief.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. Allow frequent rest periods.
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging fluids is not appropriate for a client with heart failure. Clients with heart failure often experience fluid overload due to the heart’s inability to pump effectively, leading to fluid retention.Encouraging additional fluid intake can exacerbate this condition, worsening symptoms such as edema and shortness of breath.
Choice B rationale:
Measuring vital signs every 8 hours may not be frequent enough for a client with heart failure, especially if they are experiencing acute symptoms.More frequent monitoring is often necessary to detect changes in the client’s condition promptly and to manage symptoms effectively.
Choice C rationale:
Obtaining weight weekly is not sufficient for a client with heart failure. Daily weight monitoring is crucial as it helps in detecting fluid retention early.Sudden weight gain can indicate worsening heart failure and the need for adjustments in treatment.
Choice D rationale:
Allowing frequent rest periods is essential for clients with heart failure. These clients often experience fatigue and decreased exercise tolerance due to reduced cardiac output.Frequent rest periods help in managing fatigue and preventing overexertion, which can worsen heart failure symptoms.
Correct Answer is ["D","E"]
Explanation
Running cool water over the affected area will help to decrease pain and prevent further tissue damage. Allowing the affected area to remain open to air will help to promote healing and prevent infection.
A. "Apply ice to the larger blisters" is an incorrect answer because applying ice can cause further damage to the skin and delay healing.
B. "Administer ibuprofen for pain" is an incorrect answer because the nurse cannot administer medications without a physician's order.
C. "Maintain skin integrity over the blisters" is an incorrect answer because maintaining skin integrity over the blisters can cause further damage and delay healing.
Explanation: The nurse should run cool water over the affected area and allow it to remain open to the air to promote healing and prevent infection. Applying ice or medication without a physician's order can cause further damage and delay healing.
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.