A nurse is caring for a client who is 3 days postoperative following surgical repair of a hip fracture. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to involve the client in decision making?
Report the healing status of the client's surgical site to the provider.
Assist the client to perform exercises and ambulate on the unit.
Consult the client about options proposed by the physical therapist.
Ask the client to their pain on a scale from 0 to 10 every 12 hr.
The Correct Answer is C
A) Report the healing status of the client's surgical site to the provider:
While this is an important aspect of the nurse’s responsibilities, it does not involve the client in decision-making. Reporting the healing status is a task that requires clinical assessment, but it doesn't allow the client to have a role in making decisions about their care or treatment options.
B) Assist the client to perform exercises and ambulate on the unit:
Assisting the client with exercises and ambulation is important for recovery, but it doesn’t directly involve the client in decision-making. The nurse is providing physical assistance, but this action is more about carrying out the care plan rather than consulting or involving the client in making decisions about their care.
C) Consult the client about options proposed by the physical therapist:
This option best involves the client in decision-making. It allows the nurse to discuss with the client the different options proposed by the physical therapist and gives the client the opportunity to make informed decisions about their own care. This approach supports patient autonomy and ensures the client is an active participant in their rehabilitation process.
D) Ask the client to rate their pain on a scale from 0 to 10 every 12 hr:
While assessing pain is important for managing the client’s comfort, it doesn’t necessarily involve the client in decision-making. The client is providing information, but the nurse is still the one determining the course of action regarding pain management based on that input. It is more about assessment than collaboration in decision-making.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Clenched teeth:
Clenched teeth are often a sign of discomfort or pain, especially in a client who is undergoing an epidural for pain management. This physical response typically occurs when the pain is not well controlled, as the body subconsciously tenses muscles in an attempt to cope with the pain. A clenched jaw is a clear indicator that the client is experiencing unrelieved pain, despite treatment.
B) Constipation:
Constipation is a potential side effect of medications such as opioids, which may be prescribed to manage pain. However, constipation itself is not necessarily an immediate indicator of unrelieved pain. While it can occur due to pain medications, it doesn't directly correlate with the effectiveness of pain relief from a spinal epidural.
C) Difficulty swallowing:
Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, is not a typical indicator of unrelieved pain. This symptom could be related to other issues such as neurological complications, side effects of medications, or other conditions. It is not a specific or common sign of ongoing pain, particularly in the context of an epidural for herniated disc treatment.
D) Urinary retention:
Urinary retention can occur due to the use of an epidural, especially if the epidural is affecting the lower spinal regions that control bladder function. However, it is more likely a side effect of the epidural itself rather than a sign that pain is unrelieved. While urinary retention should be monitored, it doesn't indicate whether the client’s pain is well-managed or not.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) *Restrict your daily fluid intake: Restricting fluid intake is not recommended for a client experiencing lightheadedness upon standing, especially when taking an ACE inhibitor. In fact, maintaining adequate hydration is important to help prevent hypotension, which could be exacerbated by fluid restriction. The lightheadedness may be due to orthostatic hypotension, which is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors.
B) *Take a daily potassium supplement: ACE inhibitors can increase potassium levels in the blood, potentially leading to hyperkalemia. For most clients, taking a potassium supplement is not necessary unless specified by the healthcare provider. In fact, many clients taking ACE inhibitors need to avoid excessive potassium intake, unless directed otherwise, to prevent dangerous potassium levels.
C) *Discontinue this medication if this occurs again: The nurse should not advise the client to discontinue the medication without consulting the healthcare provider. Lightheadedness upon standing is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors due to their blood pressure-lowering effects, and the healthcare provider should be notified if this becomes problematic. The decision to change or discontinue the medication should be made by the provider.
D) "Sit back down for a few minutes when this occurs": This is the most appropriate advice. Lightheadedness upon standing can be a sign of orthostatic hypotension, which is a known side effect of ACE inhibitors. The client should be instructed to sit down and rest when they experience these symptoms. If necessary, they should stand up slowly to allow their body to adjust to changes in position, which can help alleviate the lightheadedness.
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