A nurse is caring for a postoperative client who is awake, alert, and oriented. Which of the following methods should the nurse use as part of her pain management interventions to determine the intensity of the client's pain?
Visual observation for nonverbal signs of pain.
Vital sign measurement.
The client's self-report of pain severity.
The nature and invasiveness of the surgical procedure.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Visual observation for nonverbal signs of pain can be useful, especially in patients who are unable to communicate verbally. However, this method is not as accurate or reliable as obtaining the client's self-report of pain severity, which directly allows the patient to express their experience.
Choice B rationale:
Vital sign measurement, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, can provide indirect information about a patient's pain level. However, vital signs can be influenced by various factors, including anxiety or other physiological responses. They may not always accurately reflect the intensity of pain and are not as specific as the client's self-report.
Choice C rationale:
The client's self-report of pain severity is the most reliable and accurate method for determining the intensity of pain. Pain is a subjective experience, and the client's self-report is crucial for effective pain management. Pain scales, such as numeric rating scales or visual analog scales, allow clients to describe their pain intensity in a standardized way.
Choice D rationale:
The nature and invasiveness of the surgical procedure are relevant factors to consider in understanding a patient's potential pain experience. However, this information alone is not sufficient for determining the current intensity of the client's pain. Pain levels can vary among individuals undergoing the same procedure due to differences in pain tolerance and perception.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Re-measuring the respiratory rate is unnecessary. The reported respiratory rate falls within the normal range of 12-20 breaths per minute for adults.
Choice B rationale:
Re-measuring the temperature is the correct action. Tympanic temperature measurements can be influenced by factors such as earwax buildup, ear infection, or improper placement of the thermometer. Repeating the temperature measurement ensures accuracy.
Choice C rationale:
Re-measuring the pulse rate is unnecessary. The reported pulse rate of 92 beats per minute falls within the normal range of 60-100 beats per minute for adults.
Choice D rationale:
Re-measuring the blood pressure is unnecessary. The reported blood pressure of 88/58 mm Hg, while at the lower end of the normal range (typically around 90/60 mm Hg), is not excessively low and doesn't indicate an immediate need for concern.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Decreased tactile fremitus refers to a decreased vibration felt upon palpation of the chest, which might be indicative of conditions such as pleural effusion or pneumothorax. It is not directly associated with a crackling sensation.
Choice B rationale:
Pleural friction fremitus occurs when inflamed pleural surfaces rub against each other during breathing. It typically results in a grating sensation rather than a crackling sensation. It is associated with conditions like pleuritis.
Choice C rationale:
(Correct Choice) Crepitus refers to a crackling or grating sound/sensation that occurs when gas or air accumulates in the subcutaneous tissue. It can indicate a serious condition, such as subcutaneous emphysema, which might result from lung or chest wall injury, infections, or surgery.
Choice D rationale:
Rhonchal fremitus is associated with coarse breath sounds caused by thick secretions in the larger airways. It is felt as vibration during palpation and is not related to crackling sensations.
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