The client with severe chronic pain has been admitted to the hospital for an unrelated illness. The client is taking an NSAID plus a moderate dose of an opioid for pain control. Which of the following would the nurse plan to assess?
1. Client's safety rating at home
2. The client's exercise habits
3. The client's bowel functioning
4. The client's nutritional status
3
Rationale: The nurse is aware that opioids cause constipation by slowing down the gastrointestinal system, and will assess bowel habits to determine the need for interventions to relieve constipation. Clients on long-term opioids might need a daily laxative. If the client is experiencing constipation, the nurse would then assess nutritional and exercise habits and suggest measures to help alleviate constipation. There is no evidence that this client has any issues creating a safety risk.
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A nurse is assessing a school-age child who complains of stomach aches after eating. Which question is appropriate for the "D" component of the OLD CAT mnemonic?
A. "Can you describe how your tummy pain feels?" B. "Have you tried any over-the-counter drugs?" C. "How long does the pain last after you eat?" D. "What day did you first notice the pain?"
A patient continues to report pain after the administration of the prescribed analgesic. Why should the nurse change the nursing care plan?
a. Patient's pain threshold has risen. b. Patient's pain threshold has lowered. c. Patient has become addicted. d. Patient is seeking attention.
An advanced public health nurse wants to establish an independent practice. Which is the best method to achieve this goal?
a. Act as a legal expert. b. Learn complex assessment skills. c. Market a service package. d. Serve as a liaison for community programs.
The nurse conducts a program about strategies to prevent community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) at a center for senior citizens. Which statement made by a participant indicates the need for further instruction?
a. "I got the flu vaccine and it can help to prevent pneumonia." b. "I got the one time pneumonia shot, so I won't need it again." c. "I stopped smoking a year ago, so that should help me a lot." d. "I try to avoid going to the mall during the winter months."