What is the most reliable indicator of pain?
Subjective report
Physical exam
Results of a CAT scan
The client's vital signs
The Correct Answer is A
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.
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Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A) Range of motion: While assessing range of motion can provide information about joint function, it is not a specific component of a peripheral vascular assessment. This assessment primarily focuses on circulation and vascular integrity rather than mobility.
B) Color: Assessing the color of the upper extremities is essential in a peripheral vascular assessment. Changes in color can indicate issues such as poor circulation, hypoxia, or vascular disease, making it a critical observation.
C) Fine motor assessment by having the client touch each finger to thumb: This assessment evaluates both coordination and dexterity, which can indicate adequate blood flow to the fingers and upper extremities. It helps to assess the functional capacity of the hands in relation to vascular health.
D) Pain assessment: Evaluating for pain in the upper extremities is important, as pain can be a sign of vascular problems, including conditions like peripheral artery disease. It provides insight into the presence of ischemia or other vascular issues.
E) Pulses intact: Assessing the pulses in the upper extremities is a key component of a peripheral vascular assessment. Palpating the radial and brachial pulses helps determine blood flow and vascular function in the arms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Lordosis: This term specifically refers to an exaggerated inward curvature of the spine, particularly in the cervical or lumbar regions. When the nurse observes an exaggerated cervical curve, lordosis is the correct term to use for documentation, indicating a deviation from the normal spinal alignment.
B) Scoliosis: This condition is characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It does not apply to the observation of an exaggerated cervical curve and would not be appropriate for this finding.
C) Kyphosis: This term denotes an excessive outward curvature of the thoracic spine, often leading to a hunchback appearance. Since the assessment focuses on the cervical region, kyphosis would not accurately describe an exaggerated cervical curve.
D) Normal curve: This term refers to the expected, healthy curvature of the spine. Documenting an exaggerated curve as "normal" would be misleading and does not accurately reflect the observed condition. The nurse should document the finding as lordosis to convey the specific abnormality noted.