The nurse is working in a pediatric surgical unit. In discussing patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) in a preoperative parental meeting, which client would be a candidate for PCA?
1. Developmentally delayed 16-year-old, postoperative bone surgery
2. 5-year-old, postoperative tonsillectomy
3. 10-year-old who has a fractured femur and concussion from a bike accident
4. 12-year-old, postoperative spinal fusion for scoliosis
Correct Answer: 4
Rationale: Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) is most appropriate in children 5 years and over. The child must be able to press the button and understand that she will receive pain medicine by pushing the button. PCA is generally prescribed for clients who will be hospitalized for at least 48 hours. Children who are developmentally delayed or have suffered head trauma are not candidates for PCA.
You might also like to view...
Which of these laws protects off-duty health care workers from civil liability when they render aid within their specialized body of knowledge at the scene of an emergency?
a. Emergent Care Act of 1975 c. nursing practice act b. Good Samaritan Act d. state civil law
For which patient would the nurse anticipate oral replacement therapy would be contraindicated?
a. An 18-year-old with mild diarrhea b. A 35-year-old with constipation c. A 65-year-old with a bowel perforation d. A 50-year-old with flu-like symptoms
After birth of the placenta the patient states, "All of a sudden I feel very cold." What is the best nursing action in response to this statement?
a. Place a warm blanket over the patient. b. Place the baby on the patient's abdomen. c. Tell the patient that chills are expected after birth. d. "What do you mean by your words ‘very cold'?"
The nurse in the preoperative holding area is checking to see if the correct patient has been transferred for the next surgical case
What questions would the nurse ask? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply. 1. "Are you Mary Smith?" 2. "What is your name?" 3. "What is your social security number?" 4. "What is your birth date?" 5. "What surgery are you having?"