A nurse is collecting data from a client who received IV morphine for postoperative pain. The nurse should identify that which of the following findings indicates a therapeutic response to the medication?

- Choice A Rationale: The epidural PCA (patient-controlled analgesia) is designed with safety mechanisms to ensure that the patient cannot administer a dose that exceeds the prescribed safe limit. This is crucial to prevent potential overdose and complications associated with high doses of analgesics.
- Choice B Rationale: While it is true that some patients may experience reduced mobility in their legs during epidural analgesia, this is not an absolute and can vary based on the dosage and individual response. Therefore, it is not a guaranteed effect and should not be presented as such.
- Choice C Rationale: There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that epidural pain control methods shorten the second stage of labor. In fact, some studies indicate that it may actually prolong it. The primary purpose of epidural PCA is pain management, not altering the labor process timeline.
- Choice D Rationale: Postpartum headaches can be a side effect of epidural anesthesia, but they are not common to all cases. It is associated with a complication known as a post-dural puncture headache, which occurs in a minority of cases. Hence, it should not be stated as a common outcome.

Answer: D. "Clean the prosthesis using a damp, soapy cloth."

Rationale:

A. "Keep initial pressure dressing in place for 1 week after surgery":
The pressure dressing is typically changed more frequently to monitor the incision site for signs of infection and to ensure appropriate healing. Keeping it in place for a week without monitoring could increase the risk of infection and complications.

B. "Leave the prosthesis in place when going to bed":
It is generally recommended to remove the prosthesis at night to allow the residual limb to rest and prevent skin irritation or pressure sores. Leaving it on overnight can lead to unnecessary strain on the limb.

C. "Avoid extension of the hips when lying down":
Clients should actually avoid prolonged hip flexion, not extension, as it can lead to hip contractures. Instead, they should try to lie prone periodically to stretch the hip and reduce the risk of contracture formation.

D. "Clean the prosthesis using a damp, soapy cloth":
Using a damp, soapy cloth to clean the prosthesis helps maintain hygiene and prevents skin irritation. It's important to keep the prosthesis clean to avoid any buildup of bacteria or dirt, which can affect both the device and the residual limb’s health.