A postoperative patient is using patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump. You will evaluate the effectiveness of the medication when
Family members report that pain has subsided
Vital signs have returned to baseline
Body language is incongruent with reports of pain relief
You compare assessed pain with baseline pain
The Correct Answer is D
A. Family members report that pain has subsided. Pain is a subjective experience, and the patient's own report is the most reliable indicator of pain relief, not the observations of family members.
B. Vital signs have returned to baseline. While pain can affect vital signs, such as increasing heart rate or blood pressure, their return to normal does not necessarily indicate adequate pain relief. Some patients may still experience significant pain despite stable vital signs.
C. Body language is incongruent with reports of pain relief. Nonverbal cues can be helpful in assessing pain, but they should not override the patient’s self-reported pain level, which is the most accurate measure.
D. You compare assessed pain with baseline pain. The best way to evaluate the effectiveness of PCA analgesia is to assess the patient’s pain level before and after medication administration, comparing it to baseline pain. This provides an objective measure of pain relief.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["15"]
Explanation
Calculation:
To determine the volume to administer, use the formula:
Volume = (Dose ordered/ Dose available)× mL per dose
Given:
- Ordered dose = 37.5 mg
- Available concentration = 12.5 mg/5 mL
Volume = (37.5/12.5)× 5mL
= 3× 5mL
= 15mL
Thus, the nurse will administer 15 mL.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. 40-year-old with a pulse of 88. A resting pulse of 88 beats per minute is within the normal adult range (60–100 bpm) and does not require further assessment.
B. 18-year-old with a pulse rate of 140 after riding 2 miles on an exercise bike. An increased heart rate after exercise is a normal physiological response, and the heart rate should return to baseline after rest. No further assessment is needed unless tachycardia persists.
C. 50-year-old man with a BP of 112/60 mmHg on awakening in the morning. This blood pressure is within a normal range, especially in the early morning when BP is often lower. No additional assessment is required.
D. 65-year-old with a respiratory rate of 10/min. A normal respiratory rate for an adult is 12–20 breaths per minute. A respiratory rate of 10 is lower than normal and may indicate respiratory depression, which could be caused by medications such as opioids, neurological issues, or other conditions requiring further evaluation.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
