The nurse is caring for a client with chronic pancreatitis who reports persistent gnawing abdominal pain. To help the client manage the pain, which assessment data is most important for the nurse to obtain?
Eating patterns of dietary intake.
Activity level of bowel sounds.
Level and amount of physical activity.
Color and consistency of feces.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Eating patterns and dietary intake are crucial in managing chronic pancreatitis as certain foods can exacerbate symptoms. Identifying dietary triggers and making appropriate dietary modifications can help alleviate abdominal pain.
B. The activity level of bowel sounds may provide information about gastrointestinal motility but is not directly related to pain management in chronic pancreatitis.
C. Physical activity can impact overall health but may not directly alleviate abdominal pain associated with chronic pancreatitis.
D. The color and consistency of feces may indicate malabsorption or other gastrointestinal issues but may not directly address the client's pain management needs.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Administer IV fluid bolus as prescribed by the healthcare provider is not the priority unless there is evidence of hypovolemia or shock, which isn't indicated by the current vital signs alone.
B. Medicate for pain and monitor vital signs according to protocol is the most important intervention. The client's elevated heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure are likely due to inadequate pain control following a thoracotomy, a major surgical procedure known for causing significant postoperative pain. Managing the pain is crucial because uncontrolled pain can lead to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, resulting in tachycardia, hypertension, and tachypnea. Addressing the pain effectively will help stabilize these vital signs.
C. Encourage the client to splint the incision with a pillow to cough and deep breathe is an important postoperative intervention to prevent complications such as atelectasis, but it should be done after pain is adequately controlled, as pain can inhibit the ability to deep breathe and cough effectively.
D. Apply oxygen at 10 L/minute via non-rebreather mask and monitor pulse oximeter may be necessary if there are signs of hypoxia. However, the vital sign changes here are more likely related to pain rather than respiratory distress, making pain management the immediate priority.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Fentanyl and hydromorphone are potent opioids often used for pain management, but they are not typically first-line medications for acute chest pain associated with suspected myocardial infarction.
B. Hydromorphone, like fentanyl, is an opioid analgesic primarily used for moderate to severe pain but is not the first choice for managing acute chest pain.
C. Morphine is the medication of choice for managing acute chest pain associated with myocardial infarction. It helps alleviate pain, reduce myocardial oxygen demand, and relieve anxiety.

D. Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic used for moderate to severe pain but is not typically indicated as first-line therapy for acute chest pain associated with myocardial infarction.
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