Which is an example of nociceptive pain?

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect choice because the patient’s core temperature has not dropped too low. The normal body temperature range is 97.7°F to 99.5°F¹. The patient’s temperature is still within this range, although it has decreased from a feverish level.

Choice B reason: This is the correct choice because vasodilation is the process of widening the blood vessels to increase blood flow and heat loss². This is a natural response of the body to lower the temperature when it is too high. Vasodilation can cause the skin to appear flushed and feel warm to the touch³.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect choice because the patient is not exhausted from shivering. Shivering is another mechanism of the body to increase the temperature when it is too low². Shivering involves involuntary muscle contractions that generate heat³. The patient’s temperature is not too low, so shivering is not likely to occur.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect choice because the patient’s infection has not spread to the bloodstream. A bloodstream infection, or sepsis, is a serious condition that can cause a high fever, not a low one. Sepsis can also cause other symptoms, such as chills, rapid breathing, and confusion. The patient’s temperature has dropped, not increased, and there is no evidence of sepsis.

Choice A reason: This is incorrect. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality is a federal agency that supports research and improvement of health care quality and safety, but it does not provide treatment guidelines for acetaminophen overdose.

Choice B reason: This is correct. The American Association of Poison Control Centers is a national organization that provides poison information and treatment recommendations through a network of poison centers. The nurse can call the poison center at 1-800-222-1222 to get expert advice on how to manage the patient who took 60 acetaminophen tablets.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a federal agency that monitors and prevents diseases and public health threats, but it does not provide treatment guidelines for acetaminophen overdose.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect. The Institute for Safe Medication Practices is a nonprofit organization that promotes safe medication practices and error prevention, but it does not provide treatment guidelines for acetaminophen overdose.