Twelve hours following a unilateral total knee replacement, a client reports being unable to sleep because of severe incisional pain. What is the best initial nursing action?
Instruct the client in use of the prescribed patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump.
Assist the client in assuming a lateral recumbent position for comfort.
Initiate continuous passive motion (CPM) to relieve muscle spasms.
Apply ice to the incision for twenty minutes prior to joint flexion exercises.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Instructing the client in the use of the PCA pump directly addresses the severe pain by allowing the client to self-administer analgesia as needed, which provides immediate relief and is crucial for effective pain management post-surgery.
B. Assisting the client in changing positions may offer temporary relief but does not address the underlying pain, which should be managed primarily through medication.
C. Initiating CPM is not an appropriate first step for managing severe pain. CPM is used for improving joint mobility and should only be considered after effective pain management is established.
D. Applying ice might provide some temporary relief, but it is not a substitute for effective pain control through medication. Addressing the pain with PCA is the priority.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hypothyroidism is not directly related to obstructive sleep apnea. While sleep apnea can have various systemic effects, hypothyroidism is not a common complication associated with it.
B. Obstructive sleep apnea is strongly associated with an increased risk of hypertension. The repeated episodes of oxygen desaturation and arousal during sleep can contribute to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular strain.
C. Peptic ulcer disease is not a known complication of obstructive sleep apnea. It is generally associated with factors like H. pylori infection, NSAID use, and stress rather than sleep apnea.
D. Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome and is not typically associated with obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can exacerbate fatigue and sleep disturbances but does not directly cause fibromyalgia.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Paper masks and gowns used for isolation precautions should be placed in a designated biohazard bag before removal from the room. These items are considered contaminated and must be disposed of according to infection control protocols.
B. A sputum specimen should be placed in a sealed, labeled container before being transported to the lab, not in a biohazard bag for disposal.
C. The nurse's stethoscope should be disinfected but does not need to be disposed of unless it is single-use.
D. Bed linens are typically placed in a laundry bag specifically designated for contaminated linens, not in a biohazard bag.
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