The nurse is assessing a client's pain experience. Which nursing intervention is most effective in determining the severity of a client's pain?
Review the client's medical history and admission assessment.
Compare the client's current vital signs to the admission baseline.
Note how frequently doses of analgesics have been administered.
Ask the client to describe the intensity of the pain being experienced.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: While the client's medical history and admission assessment provide valuable information, they do not directly measure the current pain experience.
Choice B reason: Vital signs can indicate pain but are not a definitive measure of pain severity as they can be influenced by other factors.
Choice C reason: The frequency of analgesic administration may suggest the level of pain control but does not measure the current pain intensity experienced by the client.
Choice D reason: Asking the client to describe the intensity of the pain is the most direct and effective way to assess pain severity. Pain is subjective, and the client's self-report is considered the gold standard for pain assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Modifying nursing interventions is a step that may be necessary after evaluating the effectiveness of care, but it is not the immediate next action after reviewing the expected outcomes.
Choice B reason: Determining if the expected outcomes were realistic is part of the evaluation process, but it requires current data to make an informed decision.
Choice C reason: Obtaining current client data is essential to compare with the expected outcomes and determine if the goals of care are being met.
Choice D reason: Reviewing related professional standards of care is important for ensuring quality care, but it is not the direct next step in evaluating the effectiveness of the client's nursing care.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Offering to contact the family's spiritual counselor can provide emotional and spiritual support, but it is not the immediate priority in a situation where the client has expressed a desire to have life support withdrawn.
Choice B reason: Discussing comfort measures is important for the client and family to understand what to expect during the withdrawal process. However, this step comes after the healthcare provider has been informed and a plan of care is being developed.
Choice C reason: Informing the healthcare provider is the priority nursing intervention. The nurse acts as an advocate for the client's wishes and ensures that the appropriate steps are taken to respect the client's autonomy and decisions regarding their care.
Choice D reason: Explaining the actions that the healthcare team will follow is an essential part of the process, but it is not the first step. The healthcare provider must first be informed so that the proper orders and arrangements can be made.
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