The nurse is assessing an anxious-appearing client who is experiencing abdominal pain. The nurse should use which of the following techniques to put the client at ease when assessing the client's abdomen?

1. Palpate known painful areas first.
2. Touch each area lightly before applying deeper palpation.
3. Perform the exam as quickly as possible.
4. Refrain from conversation during the assessment.


2
Rationale 1: Known painful areas are usually the last area to be palpated as pain and tenderness cause the client to tense.
Rationale 2: Touch informs the client that the examination of the area is about to begin and may prevent a startled reaction.
Rationale 3: Touch informs the client that the examination of the area is about to begin and may prevent a startled reaction.
Rationale 4: The client will be more relaxed if the nurse talks during the assessment, explaining each movement in advance. The nurse often needs to ask the client questions during the assessment to gain a broader knowledge of the client's health.

Nursing

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