A nurse is wearing sterile gloves in preparation for assisting with a client’s sterile procedure.
While waiting for the procedure to begin, how should the nurse position her hands?

The correct answer is choice D. “I’ll think about my grandfather’s farm to reduce pain.” This statement indicates an understanding of guided imagery, which is a relaxation technique that aims to help lower the levels of stress hormones and pain perception by imagining a scene that involves each of the senses and positive emotions.

Guided imagery can help to distract from pain signals and reduce anxiety, which can also contribute to pain.

Choice A is wrong because it does not involve creating a specific imagined reality, but rather noticing the sensation of muscle tension, which may increase awareness of pain.

Choice B is wrong because it does not involve using all of the senses and emotions, but rather listening to music, which may be relaxing but not as effective as guided imagery for pain relief.

Choice C is wrong because it does not involve imagining a scene, but rather using focused breathing to control pain, which is another relaxation technique but not guided imagery.

The correct answer is choice D. The nurse should respect the client’s autonomy and offer assistance if needed.

The nurse should also assess the client’s pain level and provide adequate pain relief before helping the client get out of bed.

Choice A is wrong because it implies that the client is in pain and needs medication, which may not be true.

The nurse should ask the client about their pain level and offer medication if appropriate.

Choice B is wrong because it dismisses the client’s feelings and does not address the underlying issue of why the client does not want to be touched.

Choice C is wrong because it may make the client feel defensive or interrogated.

The nurse should use open-ended questions and active listening to explore the client’s concerns and fears.

According to web sources, postoperative care involves monitoring and managing the client’s vital signs, pain, wound healing, fluid and electrolyte balance, bowel and bladder function, mobility, and psychological status.

The nurse should also educate the client about self-care, wound care, activity restrictions, medication use, signs of complications, and follow-up appointments.

The nurse should also provide emotional support and reassurance to the client and their family.