ATI RN
Client Comfort and End of Life Care Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client asks the nurse why pain medication doesn't take all the pain away. What would be the basis of the nurse's response?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The basis of the nurse's response is that medication has limits, as pain relief depends on drug type, dose, and pain mechanismanalgesics reduce, not eliminate, pain, especially chronic or neuropathic types resistant to full blockade. Receptors may saturate, or pain pathways (e.g., inflammation) persist beyond medication reach. Choice A, pain is too severe, is partialseverity matters, but limits apply regardless; even mild pain may linger. Choice C, client is too active, might worsen pain but isn't why medication falls shortrested clients still report residual pain. Choice D, pain is not real, invalidates the clientpain's subjectivity doesn't negate its existence. Choice B is correct, enabling nurses to educate on realistic expectations, pairing drugs with adjuncts (e.g., heat) to maximize relief, addressing why total eradication isn't always achievable in pain management.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client who reports pain relief after a nerve block. What does the nurse understand about this procedure?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The nurse understands that a nerve block blocks nerve impulses, as it injects anesthetic (e.g., lidocaine) near nerves, halting pain signal transmission to the braineffective for localized pain (e.g., post-op, chronic). This is its core mechanism. Choice A, numbs the skin, is partialtopical numbing differs; blocks target deeper nerves. Choice C, reduces inflammation, isn't primarysteroids might, but nerve blocks focus on signal interruption, not swelling. Choice D, increases blood flow, is falseblocks don't alter circulation; relief is neural. Choice B is correct, informing nursing carenurses monitor block duration (hours) and sensation return, ensuring pain control and safety (e.g., no injury to numb areas), distinct from systemic analgesics.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client who reports pain relief after acupuncture. What does the nurse understand about this response?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse understands that acupuncture relieves pain by releasing endorphins, as needle stimulation triggers the nervous system to release these natural painkillers, modulating pain perceptiona key mechanism in its efficacy for chronic pain. Choice A, blocks nerve impulses, is partialnerve signaling shifts, but endorphin release is primary, not direct blockade like anesthetics. Choice B, reduces inflammation, isn't central; some blood flow effects occur, but pain relief ties to neurochemicals. Choice D, increases blood flow, contributes but isn't the main driverendorphins dominate. Choice C is correct, informing nursing carenurses recognize acupuncture's holistic benefit, supporting its use as an adjunct, monitoring relief duration, and integrating it with other therapies for sustained comfort.
Question 4 of 5
A female patient is receiving furosemide (Lasix), 40 mg P.O. b.i.d. In the plan of care, the nurse should emphasize teaching the patient about the importance of consuming:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Furosemide (Lasix) is a loop diuretic that increases urine output, commonly used to treat edema or hypertension, but it also causes significant potassium loss, a condition called hypokalemia. The nurse must educate the patient to consume potassium-rich foods to counteract this side effect. Bananas and oranges (Choice B) are excellent sources of potassiumbananas contain about 400 mg per medium fruit, and oranges around 240 mgmaking them ideal choices to maintain electrolyte balance. Fresh green vegetables (Choice A) like spinach offer some potassium but are less concentrated than bananas and oranges, and their primary benefit lies in vitamins like A and C. Lean red meat (Choice C) is rich in protein and iron but low in potassium, while creamed corn (Choice D) is high in carbohydrates and sodium, not potassium. Hypokalemia can lead to muscle cramps, arrhythmias, or fatigue, so prioritizing potassium intake is critical. Teaching the patient to include bananas and oranges ensures they address the diuretic's most significant electrolyte impact, making Choice B the best answer.
Question 5 of 5
Which intervention should the nurse in charge try first for a client that exhibits signs of sleep disturbance?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: For a client with sleep disturbance, the nurse should start with the least invasive, most natural intervention: providing normal sleep aids like pillows, back rubs, and snacks (Choice D). These promote comfort and relaxation without medication or complex techniques, addressing common causes like discomfort or anxiety. Administering sleeping medication (Choice A) is a last resort due to risks like dependency and side effects, reserved for when simpler methods fail. Asking about sleep quantity (Choice B) is assessment, not intervention, and doesn't immediately improve sleep. Teaching relaxation techniques (Choice C) is effective but requires skill and time, making it less immediate than basic aids. For example, adjusting pillows or offering a warm snack can quickly ease a client into sleep by mimicking natural routines, aligning with holistic care principles. If ineffective, the nurse can escalate to other options, but starting with Choice D ensures safety, simplicity, and patient-centered care, making it the correct first step.