The elderly client is complaining of abdominal discomfort. Which scientific rationale should the nurse remember when addressing an elderly client's perception of pain?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because as people age, their reaction to painful stimuli may decrease due to changes in the nervous system. This is important for nurses to consider when assessing and managing pain in elderly clients. Choice A is incorrect as elderly clients may have different pain perceptions compared to other age groups. Choice B is incorrect as not all elderly clients require more pain medication. Choice D is incorrect as the Wong scale is not specifically recommended for elderly clients.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Check the posterior neck for bleeding. This intervention is crucial post-thyroidectomy to monitor for any signs of bleeding, which can be life-threatening. Checking for bleeding is a priority as it can lead to airway compromise and requires immediate intervention. Assessing for Chvostek's sign (B) is unrelated to a thyroidectomy and is used to detect hypocalcemia. Monitoring serum calcium level (C) is important but not as immediate as checking for bleeding. Changing the surgical dressing (D) is important for wound care but does not address the critical need to assess for bleeding.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Hypotension and dizziness. In atrial fibrillation with a rapid ventricular rate, the heart is unable to effectively pump blood, leading to decreased cardiac output. This can result in hypotension and dizziness due to inadequate perfusion of tissues. Flat neck veins (choice A) are not typically associated with atrial fibrillation. Nausea and vomiting (choice B) may occur in some cases but are not the primary signs and symptoms. Hypertension and headache (choice D) are less likely to occur with atrial fibrillation and a rapid ventricular rate.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The clear nasal drainage post-hypophysectomy could indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Testing the drainage for glucose can help differentiate between CSF and nasal secretions. CSF contains glucose, so if the drainage tests positive for glucose, it confirms a CSF leak. This is important because a CSF leak requires prompt intervention to prevent complications. Lowering the head of the bed (choice A) may promote CSF leakage. Obtaining a culture (choice C) is not the initial priority, as identifying the type of fluid is crucial first. Continuing to observe (choice D) delays necessary action if a CSF leak is present.