A client who had surgery has extreme postoperative pain that is worsened when trying to participate in physical therapy. What intervention for pain management does the nurse include in the client's care plan?
a. As-needed pain medication after therapy
b. Client-controlled analgesia with a basal rate
c. Pain medications prior to therapy only
d. Round-the-clock analgesia with PRN analgesics
ANS: D
Severe pain related to surgery or tissue trauma is best managed with round-the-clock dosing. Breakthrough pain associated with specific procedures is managed with additional medication. An as-needed regimen will not control postoperative pain. A client-controlled analgesia pump might be a good idea but needs basal (continuous) and bolus (intermittent) settings to accomplish adequate pain control. Pain control needs to be continuous, not just administered prior to therapy.
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The RN has just been stuck with a syringe while dropping it into a sharps container that was too full in a client's room. Which of the following steps should be taken first for a puncture?
1. Complete an injury report. 2. Encourage bleeding. 3. Initiate first aid. 4. Wash the area with soap and water.
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