For the past six hours, a postoperative male client has refused pain medication because he believed that he could "tough it out." When an opioid analgesic is administered, the client has difficulty obtaining a satisfactory level of comfort.

Which action is best for the practical nurse (PN) to use in assisting this client to deal with his pain?

The correct answer is choicea. Teach the client to use a straw when taking the medication to reduce further tooth staining.

Choice A rationale:

Using a straw when taking liquid iron preparations helps minimize contact with the teeth, thereby reducing the risk of staining.

Choice B rationale:

While tooth discoloration can indicate that the iron is being absorbed, it is not a desired effect and should be managed to prevent cosmetic concerns.

Choice C rationale:

Assessing for mouth or gum pain and difficulty swallowing is important but not directly related to the issue of tooth staining.

Choice D rationale:

Advising the client to withhold doses without consulting a healthcare provider could lead to non-compliance and inadequate treatment of iron deficiency.

The correct answer is choice A: Have the client sit down in the hall.

Choice A rationale: The PN should first have the client sit down to help alleviate the client's chest tightness and shortness of breath. Sitting down allows for better lung expansion and reduces the risk of falling due to dizziness or lightheadedness. This is the most appropriate initial action in response to the client's complaint.

Choice B rationale: While assisting the client back to their room is important, the PN should first ensure that the client is sitting down to help manage their symptoms. After the client is seated and more stable, the PN can then assist them back to their room for further assessment and intervention.

Choice C rationale: Administering sublingual nitroglycerin may be appropriate if the client is experiencing cardiac-related chest pain. However, the PN should first have the client sit down and gather more information about their symptoms before administering any medications.

Choice D rationale: Obtaining a 12-lead electrocardiogram can help assess the client's cardiac status, but it is not the first action that the PN should take in this situation. Ensuring the client's safety and managing their symptoms are immediate priorities. The PN can consider obtaining an electrocardiogram after addressing the client's immediate needs and assessing their condition further.