When assessing a client's pain, the nurse determines the location and intensity of the pain. To gather data about the quality of the pain, which action should the nurse take?

Ask the client to describe the pain experienced.

Provide the client with a visual analog scale.

Instruct the client in use of a numeric pain scale.

Gently palpate the area and observe the response.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A.   Asking the client to describe the pain is the most direct way to gather information about the quality of the pain. This approach allows the client to express characteristics such as whether the pain is sharp, dull, burning, aching, throbbing, or stabbing.
B.   A visual analog scale (VAS) is useful for assessing the intensity of pain, not the quality. The VAS typically involves a line with endpoints representing no pain and worst possible pain, where the client marks their pain level.
C.   The numeric pain scale is designed to measure the intensity of pain on a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 indicates no pain and 10 represents the worst pain imaginable. Like the VAS, this scale assesses pain intensity rather than quality.
D.   Palpation and observing the client's response can help assess the location and intensity of pain, particularly if there are physical findings associated with the pain. However, this method does not provide information about the pain’s quality, such as its character or nature.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Using a bag valve mask (BVM) to manually ventilate the client would be considered an extraordinary measure, which conflicts with the client's living will stating no extraordinary measures should be taken.
B. While it's essential to ensure that the client's current wishes are respected, the client is likely unable to communicate effectively due to their condition. If the client were able to express their wishes at this stage, it might be important to confirm, but given the client's living will and the established DNR order, the primary focus should be on adhering to these documents.
C. Reporting the client's status to the healthcare provider is important to ensure that the provider is informed about the client’s current condition and can offer guidance or make necessary adjustments in the care plan. However, if the healthcare provider is already aware of the client's living will and DNR order, this step may be secondary to following the existing orders.
D. Administering supplemental oxygen via a nasal cannula is a palliative measure that can provide comfort without being considered an extraordinary measure. It aligns with the goal of providing symptom relief and comfort care rather than resuscitation or life-extending interventions.

A. Tell the client to use larger bags that expand with gas. B. Teach the client how to burp the bag to relieve the gas. C. Ensure that the pin holes are made at the top of the bag. D. Inform the client about bags that have gas release valves.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Using larger bags might help accommodate the gas more comfortably and reduce the need for making pinholes. However, this solution does not address the immediate issue of gas accumulation and may not be practical for all clients.
B. "Burping" the bag is a recognized technique for managing gas in colostomy bags. It involves opening the end of the bag slightly to release gas, which helps to prevent the bag from ballooning and causing discomfort. This method is effective and safe, as it is specifically designed to manage gas without compromising the integrity of the bag.
C. Making pinholes in the colostomy bag is not a recommended practice. Pinholes can lead to leakage and increase the risk of skin irritation or infection. While ensuring the pinholes are at the top might reduce some complications, it does not solve the fundamental issue and poses a risk to the client's health and hygiene.
D. Colostomy bags equipped with built-in gas release valves are designed specifically to manage gas accumulation safely and effectively. Informing the client about these specialized bags provides a practical solution to the problem of gas buildup and avoids the risks associated with making pinholes.

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When assessing a client's pain, the nurse determines the location and intensity of the pain. To gather data about the quality of the pain, which action should the nurse take?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A client with a colostomy tells the nurse about making small pin holes in the drainage bag to help relieve the gas that collects. Which action should the nurse implement?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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