A terminally ill patient is experiencing constipation secondary to pain medication. Which is the best method for the nurse to improve the patient's constipation problem?
Contact the health care provider to discontinue pain medication.
Massage the patient's abdomen.
Use a laxative.
Administer enemas twice daily for 7 days.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Discontinuing pain medication may not be appropriate, as it can lead to inadequate pain management for the patient. Pain management is crucial for terminally ill patients.
B. While abdominal massage may help relieve mild constipation, it is not a reliable primary intervention for more severe constipation caused by medication.
C. Laxatives are commonly prescribed for constipation related to pain medication and are an effective method to promote bowel movements, making this the best choice.
D. Administering enemas twice daily can be excessive and may cause discomfort or lead to dependency, making this option less favorable than using laxatives.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Encouraging self-care helps promote independence and functional recovery in stroke patients, supporting rehabilitation and enhancing self-esteem.
B. Bed rest is not recommended as it can contribute to muscle deconditioning and complications associated with immobility.
C. While coordination with therapy is beneficial, gait training is typically handled by physical therapy rather than occupational therapy.
D. Providing a complete bed bath limits the patient’s autonomy; encouraging partial participation supports the patient's involvement in self-care.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Performing movements until the patient reports pain is inappropriate in passive range of motion, as the goal is to maintain joint function without causing discomfort.
B. Moving each joint to the point of resistance helps to maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness without causing harm, making this the appropriate technique.
C. Repeating movements five times by the patient is not applicable for passive range of motion, which is performed by the nurse on a patient who cannot do it themselves.
D. While smooth movements are essential, they should not be done quickly; the focus should be on the patient's comfort and safety, avoiding rapid or jerky motions.