The nurse notices a client grimacing while moving from the bed to a chair, but when asked about the pain the client denies having any pain. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Review the pain medications prescribed.
Monitor the client’s nonverbal behavior.
Administer PRN oral pain medication.
Ask the client what is causing the grimacing.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Administering PRN oral pain medication without further assessment may not be appropriate, as the client’s pain needs must be fully evaluated before intervening with medication. Pain medication should be administered based on an accurate assessment rather than solely on nonverbal cues.
Choice B rationale
Reviewing the pain medications prescribed is important, particularly if the client is exhibiting signs of uncontrolled pain. However, this intervention should be secondary to further assessment of the client’s current pain status.
Choice C rationale
Administering PRN oral pain medication without further assessment may not be appropriate, as the client’s pain needs must be fully evaluated before intervening with medication. Pain medication should be administered based on an accurate assessment rather than solely on nonverbal cues.
Choice D rationale
Asking the client what is causing the grimacing is the correct intervention to implement first. Nonverbal cues, such as grimacing, can indicate the presence of pain, even if the client denies it verbally. By closely monitoring the client’s nonverbal behavior, the nurse can gather additional information about the client’s pain experience and make appropriate interventions based on a comprehensive assessment.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Using everyday language when explaining issues is the most important action. This ensures that the information is easily understood by older adult clients. Complex medical terms and terminology may be confusing or overwhelming for them, so using plain language enhances comprehension and promotes effective learning.
Choice B rationale
Providing a very well-lit meeting space is important for facilitating communication, especially for older adults who may have visual impairments. However, it is not as crucial as using understandable language.
Choice C rationale
Speaking loudly and facing the client is important for ensuring the client can hear and understand the information. However, speaking loudly may be perceived as patronizing or disrespectful. Many older adults may have normal hearing but prefer clear and normal volume speech.
Choice D rationale
Underlining key words on the written information can be a helpful strategy for emphasizing important points, but it is not as critical as using everyday language when explaining concepts orally. Additionally, not all older adults may benefit from written information, as some may have visual impairments or difficulties reading.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Initiating a fall risk protocol is not necessary when the client demonstrates an upright posture and a smooth, steady gait. Fall risk protocols are typically initiated when there are signs of instability or a history of falls.
Choice B rationale
Recording the client’s ability to perform ADLs safely is the appropriate action. This documentation provides a baseline for the client’s functional status and helps in planning further care. It also ensures that the client’s current abilities are noted for future reference.
Choice C rationale
Determining the client’s activity tolerance is important but not the immediate next step after observing a smooth and steady gait. This assessment can be done later to evaluate the client’s endurance and capacity for physical activities.
Choice D rationale
Teaching the client to shorten the stride to prevent falls is unnecessary when the client’s gait is already smooth and steady. This advice is more relevant for clients who show signs of instability or a tendency to fall.