What is most important for the practical nurse (PN) to include when performing pain assessment after giving an analgesic?
Ask about elements of the pain experience.
Question the client about precipitating factors.
Locate where in the body the pain occurs.
Apply a pain scale to describe intensity.
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is choice D. Apply a pain scale to describe intensity.
Choice A rationale:
Asking about elements of the pain experience is important for a comprehensive pain assessment, but it is not the most critical aspect immediately after administering an analgesic. This step is more relevant during the initial assessment to understand the nature and characteristics of the pain.
Choice B rationale:
Questioning the client about precipitating factors can help identify what triggers the pain, which is useful for long-term pain management strategies. However, this is not the primary focus after giving an analgesic, as the immediate goal is to evaluate the effectiveness of the pain relief.
Choice C rationale:
Locating where in the body the pain occurs is essential for diagnosing and understanding the pain’s origin. However, after administering an analgesic, the priority is to assess the change in pain intensity rather than its location.
Choice D rationale:
Applying a pain scale to describe intensity is crucial after giving an analgesic because it provides a quantifiable measure of the pain relief achieved. This helps in determining the effectiveness of the medication and guides further pain management interventions.
By focusing on the pain intensity using a standardized pain scale, the practical nurse can objectively evaluate the patient’s response to the analgesic and make informed decisions about any additional pain management needs.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A,B,D,C
Explanation
= The correct sequence is: A. Perform standard hand washing, B. Put on disposable gown, D. Don a pair of procedure gloves, C. Remove gloves and gown in the room.
Choice A rationale:
Performing standard hand washing before donning personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential to ensure that the UAP's hands are clean before putting on gloves and gown.
Choice B rationale:
Putting on a disposable gown is the next step after hand washing to protect the UAP's clothing from potential contamination.
Choice D rationale:
Donning a pair of procedure gloves is the next step after putting on the gown to protect the UAP's hands from contact with potentially infectious material.
Choice C rationale:
Removing gloves and gown in the client's room is the last step in the sequence. This step ensures that any potential contaminants stay within the isolation room and do not spread to other areas of the facility.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is the best action for the PN to use in assisting this client to deal with his pain because it provides a non-pharmacological method of pain relief that can enhance the effect of the opioid analgesic. Slow, rhythmic breathing can help the client relax, distract from the pain, and increase oxygenation and blood flow.
A. Dimming the lights in the room and closing the door may not be enough to help the client deal with his pain and may not address his psychological or emotional needs.
C. Turning the television on to the client's favorite show may not be effective in helping the client deal with his pain and may be distracting or irritating for him.
D. Obtaining a prescription for a higher dose of pain medication may not be necessary or appropriate for this client and may increase the risk of side effects or dependence. The PN should assess the client's pain level and response to the current dose before requesting a change in medication.
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