The nurse is providing care to an 87-year-old female with a history of osteoarthritis. The patient reports an average generalized pain score of 4 on a 0-to-10 scale wile using acetaminophen prn. Which of the following statements by the nurse is best?
a. "Research shows that acetaminophen is not really effective for osteoarthritis pain."
b. "Are you satisfied with this level of pain control?"
c. "Do you take a daily calcium supplement?"
d. "I'm glad the acetaminophen is working for you."
ANS: B
Acetaminophen can be helpful in reducing pain associated with osteoarthritis, so the nurse should assess whether the patient is satisfied with the current level of pain control. C. Calcium supplementation is not related to pain control. D misses the opportunity to assess whether the patient is both comfortable and functional with the current pain management.
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a. Perform nasotracheal suctioning of secretions. b. Turn the patient on his side and raise the head of the bed. c. Insert a nasopharyngeal airway as needed. d. Administer morphine sulfate intravenously.
The nurse manager schedules evaluations of staff members using a newly developed performance appraisal tool. The development of a performance appraisal tool should include:
a. Organizational mission, philosophy, and position requirements. b. A generalized overview of the duties of a position. c. A skills checklist and accreditation requirements. d. An ordinal scale that ranks all employees.
The primary health care nurse would recommend screening based on known risk factors, because of which action?
a. Eliminate the possibility of developing a condition. b. Identify appropriate treatment guidelines. c. Initiate treatment of a condition or disease. d. Make a substantial difference in morbidity and mortality.
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