A nurse is caring for a postoperative client. The nurse should base the client's pain management interventions primarily on which methods of determining the intensity of the client's pain?
The patient's chart
Visual observation for nonverbal signs of pain
The client's self-report of pain severity
The nature and invasiveness of the surgical procedure
The Correct Answer is C
A. The patient's chart may provide historical information but does not reflect the current pain intensity the client is experiencing.
B. Visual observation for nonverbal signs of pain can be useful, especially for nonverbal patients, but self-reporting is the most accurate measure of pain intensity.
C. The client's self-report of pain severity is the gold standard for assessing pain intensity, as it reflects the individual’s personal experience of pain.
D. While the nature and invasiveness of the surgical procedure can provide context for expected pain levels, they do not replace the importance of the client's self-report in managing pain effectively.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Assessing visual acuity directly tests cranial nerve II (the optic nerve), which is responsible for vision.
B. Eliciting the gag reflex tests cranial nerves IX (glossopharyngeal) and X (vagus), not cranial nerve II.
C. Checking for pupillary response to light primarily assesses the function of cranial nerve II but is more associated with cranial nerve III (oculomotor) since it involves the constriction of the pupil. While relevant, it is not the best standalone action for assessing cranial nerve II specifically.
D. Observing for facial symmetry is associated with cranial nerve VII (facial nerve), not cranial nerve II.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. In the anterior chest assessment, auscultation usually follows inspection and is typically done before percussion.
B. In the neck assessment, the nurse may inspect and then auscultate (e.g., carotid arteries) before palpation.
C. In the heart assessment, auscultation follows inspection but may not involve percussion.
D. In the abdomen, the correct order is to inspect, auscultate, and then percuss to assess bowel sounds effectively before creating additional disturbances with percussion.