The nurse is caring for a client who has pain due to sickle cell anemia. The patient rates the pain as a 7 out of 10 (O is no pain and 10 is the worst pain possible). The client is moving around easily and smiling. She is asking for pain medication. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
Notify the healthcare provider that the client is exaggerating their pain
Wait 30 minutes and see if the client is still requesting pain medication
Administer the pain medication as prescribed
Administer half of the ordered dose of pain medication
The Correct Answer is C
A) Notify the healthcare provider that the client is exaggerating their pain: It is inappropriate for the nurse to assume that the client is exaggerating their pain based solely on their demeanor. Pain perception is subjective and can vary greatly among individuals, especially in conditions like sickle cell anemia.
B) Wait 30 minutes and see if the client is still requesting pain medication: Delaying pain relief can lead to unnecessary suffering. Given that the client rates their pain as a 7 out of 10, which indicates significant discomfort, it is essential to address their pain promptly rather than postponing treatment.
C) Administer the pain medication as prescribed: This is the most appropriate action. Clients with sickle cell anemia often experience severe pain crises, and effective pain management is crucial. Administering the medication as prescribed supports the client's comfort and well-being.
D) Administer half of the ordered dose of pain medication: Modifying the dosage without a provider's order is not appropriate. If the full prescribed dose is warranted based on the pain level, the nurse should administer it as indicated to ensure effective pain management.
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Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A) Texture: Assessing the texture of the skin is an important part of a comprehensive skin assessment. It provides insights into the health and hydration status of the skin. Normal skin texture should feel smooth and even, while changes can indicate issues such as dryness or conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
B) Tachypnea: This term refers to an increased respiratory rate and is not a characteristic assessed in the skin. While it can indicate a physiological response to various conditions, it does not relate to skin health or characteristics and therefore is not relevant in this context.
C) Turgor: Skin turgor refers to the elasticity and hydration status of the skin, which can be assessed by pinching the skin. Proper turgor indicates adequate hydration, while decreased turgor can signal dehydration or other health issues. This is an essential component of skin assessment.
D) Temperature: Assessing the temperature of the skin can provide information about circulation and potential inflammation or infection. Normal skin temperature should feel warm and consistent, while variations can suggest underlying conditions such as fever or shock.
E) Tympany: Tympany is a term used in percussion assessments of the abdomen and is not applicable to skin assessment. It refers to a hollow sound produced by tapping on a body surface and does not pertain to skin characteristics.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Splint and immobilize the extremity: While immobilizing the injured extremity is important to prevent further injury, it should follow an initial assessment of blood flow and nerve function to ensure there are no vascular or neurological compromises.
B) Apply an ice pack to the ankle: Applying ice can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. However, it is essential first to assess the circulation to the limb to ensure that applying ice will not worsen any underlying issues.
C) Encourage weight bearing and ambulation: Encouraging weight bearing on a potentially injured ankle can lead to further damage and is not appropriate. The priority is to assess the injury and understand its severity.
D) Assess pulse, color, temperature, and capillary refill: This step is crucial as it evaluates the vascular status of the limb. Assessing these factors helps identify any potential complications, such as compartment syndrome or inadequate blood flow, and guides further management of the injury.