The nurse is assessing a client admitted with severe back pain. Which are essential components of the pain assessment? Select all that apply.
Impact on ADL's.
Family medical history.
Pain intensity rating
Characteristics of the pain.
Aggravating factors.
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E
A) Impact on ADLs: Understanding how pain affects a client's activities of daily living (ADLs) is crucial for assessing the overall impact of the pain on their life. It provides insight into the functional limitations caused by the pain and helps guide treatment planning.
B) Family medical history: While family medical history can provide context for certain conditions, it is not an essential component of a focused pain assessment. The immediate concerns are more directly related to the client's current pain experience rather than their family's medical background.
C) Pain intensity rating: Assessing the intensity of pain is a fundamental aspect of pain assessment. Using scales (e.g., 0-10) allows the nurse to quantify the pain, monitor changes over time, and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.
D) Characteristics of the pain: Understanding the characteristics of the pain—such as its quality (sharp, dull, throbbing) and location—is essential for determining its cause and guiding appropriate treatment strategies.
E) Aggravating factors: Identifying what exacerbates the pain is critical for understanding its nature and developing effective management strategies. Knowing which activities or positions worsen the pain can help in creating a comprehensive care plan tailored to the client's needs.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Subjective report: The most reliable indicator of pain is the patient's own description of their experience. Pain is inherently subjective, and individuals may perceive and express pain differently. Listening to the client's self-report provides valuable insight into their pain intensity, quality, and impact on daily life, which cannot be accurately assessed through objective measures alone.
B) Physical exam: While a physical exam can provide important information about potential sources of pain or related conditions, it may not accurately reflect the intensity or nature of the pain the patient is experiencing. Physical findings may vary widely among individuals with similar pain complaints, making this a less reliable indicator.
C) Results of a CAT scan: Imaging studies like CAT scans can identify structural issues, such as fractures or tumors, but they do not measure pain. Many patients with significant pain may have normal imaging results, while others with severe findings may report minimal discomfort, underscoring the limitations of relying solely on diagnostic tests.
D) The client's vital signs: Vital signs can indicate physiological responses to pain, such as increased heart rate or blood pressure, but they are not specific indicators of pain severity. Many factors can influence vital signs, including anxiety and other medical conditions, making them unreliable for assessing pain levels independently.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A) Include the student and family in a meeting to elicit her feelings about scoliosis and wearing a brace: This intervention is essential as it encourages open communication and allows the student to express her concerns and feelings about her condition and the brace. Involving the family ensures that they can provide support and understanding during this transition.
B) Suggest that the pediatrician prescribe an anti-anxiety agent for the student: While managing anxiety may be important, it is not the nurse's role to suggest medication without a thorough assessment and evaluation by a healthcare provider. This intervention may not be appropriate in the context of providing support for scoliosis.
C) Teach the student and family about clothing that will hide the brace: This intervention is practical and can help the student feel more comfortable and confident while wearing the brace. By discussing clothing options, the nurse can help alleviate some of the psychological stress associated with wearing a visible brace.
D) Provide contact information for a local scoliosis support group to the student and family: Connecting the family with a support group can provide valuable resources and emotional support. It allows them to engage with others who understand their experiences, which can be reassuring and help them navigate the challenges of scoliosis.