A patient is experiencing severe abdominal pain that radiates to the back. According to the PQRST mnemonic, what primary question should the nurse focus on to gather more information related to the region or location?
What does your pain feel like?
When did your pain start?
Where exactly is your pain located? Does it spread to any other areas?
On a scale of 0 to 10, how severe is your pain?
The Correct Answer is C
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Follow-up is essential after radioactive iodine therapy to monitor thyroid hormone levels and detect potential hypothyroidism or residual hyperthyroidism. Patients typically require periodic blood tests for months to years after treatment.
B. Radioactive iodine-131 selectively destroys overactive thyroid tissue, which decreases the production of thyroid hormones. This mechanism is why it is effective for treating hyperthyroidism, especially in conditions like Graves’ disease or toxic nodular goiter.
C. Radioactive iodine-131 is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding because it can cross the placenta and damage fetal thyroid tissue, potentially causing congenital hypothyroidism.
D. Antithyroid medications, such as methimazole or propylthiouracil, are often first-line therapy, especially in younger clients or those who are pregnant. Radioactive iodine is typically used when medication fails, is not tolerated, or as definitive therapy in adults.
Correct Answer is ["B","D"]
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can inhibit platelet function and increase bleeding risk. In children with hemophilia, NSAIDs should be avoided for pain management. Acetaminophen is preferred for mild to moderate pain.
B. Monitoring vital signs helps detect early signs of internal bleeding, such as tachycardia or hypotension. Observing the progression of bruising and joint swelling is essential to assess bleeding severity and prevent complications like hemarthrosis or joint damage.
C. Children with hemophilia are at high risk for bleeding with trauma or falls. Activity should be encouraged with appropriate protective gear, supervision, and avoidance of high-impact sports to prevent injuries.
D. Administration of the specific clotting factor (Factor VIII or IX, depending on type) is the primary treatment for preventing or controlling bleeding episodes in hemophilia. Early replacement can reduce joint damage and manage pain associated with hemarthrosis.
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