A nurse is educating a 35-year-old client with hyperthyroidism about the use of radioactive iodine-131 for treatment. Which statement made by the client indicates a correct understanding of this treatment?

Rationale:

A. Gastrointestinal distress caused by NSAIDs like ketorolac is primarily due to gastric mucosal irritation, not potassium deficiency. A diet high in potassium does not prevent NSAID-related GI complications. Protective strategies include taking the medication with food or using gastroprotective agents if needed.

B. Ketorolac is a potent NSAID with a high risk of renal toxicity, gastrointestinal bleeding, and cardiovascular effects. It is generally not recommended for long-term or repeated use, and overlapping NSAIDs can increase the risk of adverse effects. The nurse should avoid concurrent NSAIDs unless explicitly prescribed.

C. Ketorolac can cause acute kidney injury, fluid retention, and electrolyte imbalances, even in patients without prior renal issues. Monitoring serum creatinine, BUN, and intake/output is essential to detect early renal compromise. This is especially important in patients with rheumatoid arthritis who may already be at risk due to chronic inflammation or other medications.

D. Taking ketorolac on an empty stomach increases the risk of gastric irritation and ulcers. NSAIDs should typically be taken with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal adverse effects.

Rationale:

A. This question addresses the quality of the pain, which describes the nature or character (e.g., sharp, dull, stabbing, burning). While understanding pain quality can help in identifying the type of tissue or organ involved, it does not provide information about the anatomical location or whether the pain radiates, which is the focus of the “Region/Location” aspect of PQRST.

B. Asking about onset addresses timing, including when the pain began and how it has progressed over time. This falls under the “Timing” component of PQRST and is helpful for determining acute versus chronic conditions but does not provide specific location information needed for assessment of regional involvement.

C. This question directly targets the “Region/Location” and Radiation components of PQRST. Identifying the exact site of pain and whether it spreads helps the nurse recognize patterns indicative of certain conditions. For example, epigastric or mid-abdominal pain radiating to the back may suggest pancreatitis, while flank pain radiating to the groin could indicate renal colic from kidney stones. Assessing location is also crucial for triaging severity, determining diagnostic tests, and planning interventions.

D. This question addresses the intensity or severity of pain, which falls under the “Severity” component of PQRST. While essential for evaluating the impact of pain and guiding analgesic interventions, it does not provide information about anatomical location or radiation patterns.