what are the common causes of postoperative pain and how should it be managed
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Nursing Elites

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2020

1. What are the common causes of postoperative pain and how should it be managed?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Postoperative pain is commonly caused by the surgical incision and muscle tension. The correct answer is A. Surgical incisions cause tissue damage, triggering pain responses. Muscle tension can result from factors like positioning during surgery or guarding due to pain. Managing postoperative pain caused by surgical incisions and muscle tension involves the use of analgesics to alleviate discomfort. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Nerve damage and wound complications may also cause pain but are not as common as surgical incisions and muscle tension. Hypotension and respiratory issues are not direct causes of postoperative pain. Infection at the incision site can lead to pain, but it is a specific complication rather than a common cause of postoperative pain.

2. A nurse is caring for a client following an acute myocardial infarction. The client is concerned that providing self-care will be difficult due to extreme fatigue. Which of the following strategies should the nurse implement to promote the client's independence?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Instructing the client to focus on gradually resuming self-care tasks is the most appropriate strategy to promote independence following an acute myocardial infarction. This approach allows the client to regain confidence and control over their self-care activities without feeling overwhelmed. Requesting an occupational therapy consult (Choice A) may be beneficial but is not the immediate solution to promote independence. Assigning assistive personnel (Choice B) to perform tasks for the client does not encourage independence. Asking if a family member is available for assistance (Choice D) does not directly promote the client's independence.

3. A nurse is teaching a client who has multiple sclerosis (MS) about strategies to reduce fatigue. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction the nurse should include is to 'Rest as needed throughout the day.' Fatigue is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS), and adequate rest is essential to manage it effectively. Resting as needed helps conserve energy and prevent fatigue from worsening. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. 'Exercise to the point of exhaustion' is not recommended as it can lead to increased fatigue. 'Avoiding physical activity' entirely is not advisable as appropriate exercise can help maintain strength and energy levels. 'Exercising only once per week' may not be sufficient to combat fatigue and maintain overall well-being in clients with MS.

4. What is the correct way to assess for pitting edema?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct way to assess for pitting edema is to press over a bony area, typically the tibia, for 5 seconds and then release. This allows for the identification of pitting edema, characterized by an indentation that persists for a few seconds. Choice B is incorrect as pitting edema assessment does not involve checking for discoloration. Choice C is incorrect as the presence of a rash is not indicative of pitting edema. Choice D is incorrect as rebound tenderness is a different assessment used for abdominal conditions, not for pitting edema.

5. What is the priority intervention for sepsis?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In the management of sepsis, prompt intervention is crucial. Administering IV antibiotics is essential to target the underlying infection. Monitoring blood pressure helps assess the patient's hemodynamic status. Administering fluids is vital to maintain adequate perfusion. Therefore, all the options are integral components of the initial management of sepsis, making 'All of the above' the correct answer. Choosing any single intervention over the others may delay optimal care and compromise patient outcomes.

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