how can a nurse manage pain in a post operative patient

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2020

1. How can pain in a post-operative patient be managed effectively?

A. Administer analgesics as prescribed
B. Encourage deep breathing exercises
C. Provide distractions
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Managing pain in a post-operative patient requires a multimodal approach, which includes both pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies. Administering analgesics as prescribed helps in controlling pain pharmacologically. Encouraging deep breathing exercises can aid in pain management by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Providing distractions, such as music or activities, can help divert the patient's attention from pain. Therefore, all the given options are essential components of an effective pain management plan for post-operative patients.

2. What is the correct procedure for taking a telephone order from a provider?

A. State patient name, drug, dose, route, frequency, and read back the order
B. State the medication and ask for a witness to listen to the order
C. Write down the order and verify with the provider within 12 hours
D. Have the provider verify the order during the next in-person visit

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct procedure for taking a telephone order from a provider is to state the patient's name, drug, dose, route, frequency, and then read back the order to ensure accuracy. This process helps in preventing errors and ensures that all relevant information is correctly documented. Choice B is incorrect because having a witness listen to the order is not a standard practice and may not guarantee accuracy. Choice C is incorrect as verifying the order within 12 hours may lead to delays in patient care. Choice D is incorrect because waiting for the provider to verify the order during the next in-person visit could result in a significant delay in administering necessary medication.

3. A home health nurse is preparing for an initial visit with an older adult client who lives alone. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. Educate the client about their current medical diagnosis.
B. Refer the client to a meal delivery program.
C. Identify environmental hazards in the home.
D. Arrange transportation for the client to follow-up appointments.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Identifying environmental hazards in the client's home is the priority during the initial visit with an older adult living alone. This action is crucial to prevent accidents, falls, and ensure the client's safety. While educating the client about their medical diagnosis, referring them to a meal delivery program, and arranging transportation for follow-up appointments are essential, addressing environmental hazards takes precedence as it directly impacts the client's immediate safety and well-being.

4. A client diagnosed with gout is receiving dietary instruction from a nurse. What dietary advice should be provided?

A. Limit intake of fresh fruits and uncooked vegetables
B. Limit intake of red meat and shellfish
C. Limit intake of dairy products
D. Increase intake of leafy greens

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to limit the intake of red meat and shellfish. These foods are high in purines, which can increase uric acid levels and trigger gout flare-ups. Fresh fruits, uncooked vegetables, dairy products, and leafy greens are generally not associated with exacerbating gout symptoms and do not need to be significantly restricted in the diet of someone with gout.

5. A nurse is performing vision testing for a client following a head injury. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a problem with pupil accommodation?

A. Pupils constrict when shifting gaze from near to far
B. Pupils constrict when shifting gaze from far to near
C. Lack of change in pupil size when shifting gaze from near to far
D. Lack of change in pupil size when shifting gaze from far to near

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Pupil accommodation problems are indicated by the lack of change in size when shifting gaze from far to near. The correct answer is D because in pupil accommodation, the pupils should constrict when shifting gaze from far to near in order to adjust for near vision. Choices A and B describe normal responses of pupil constriction when shifting gaze, which do not indicate a problem. Choice C is incorrect as it describes a normal response of pupil size change when shifting gaze from near to far.