What should the nurse do first when a client is admitted with acute pain after surgery?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct first step is to administer pain relief (Choice A) because addressing the client's pain is a top priority to ensure their comfort and well-being. Pain management is crucial post-surgery to prevent complications and aid in recovery. Monitoring vital signs (Choice B) is important but should follow pain relief to ensure the client's stability. Assessing the wound (Choice C) is necessary but not the immediate priority when the client is in acute pain. Applying a warm compress (Choice D) may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying cause of the pain. Therefore, administering pain relief is the most appropriate initial action to alleviate the client's discomfort and start the healing process effectively.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Encourage deep breathing. This is because encouraging deep breathing can help alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial in managing severe chest pain. Administering nitroglycerin (A) should only be done after assessing the client's condition and confirming it is safe to do so. Providing pain relief (B) may be necessary, but addressing the root cause of the pain should be the priority. Monitoring ECG (C) is important but should come after ensuring the client's immediate needs are addressed.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer epinephrine. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for severe allergic reactions as it acts quickly to reverse symptoms like airway swelling and low blood pressure. It helps to open airways and increase blood pressure. Antihistamines (B) are not as fast-acting as epinephrine in severe reactions. Applying a cold compress (C) is not effective in treating anaphylaxis. Placing the client in a supine position (D) can worsen breathing difficulties. Administering epinephrine is crucial in managing severe allergic reactions promptly and effectively.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer nitroglycerin. Nitroglycerin is the priority action for a client with a suspected myocardial infarction as it helps dilate coronary arteries, improving blood flow to the heart muscle. This helps reduce chest pain and minimize myocardial damage. Administering fluids (B) may be necessary but not the priority. Placing the client in a sitting position (C) could worsen symptoms. Administering aspirin (D) is important but not as immediate as nitroglycerin for acute pain relief.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administer oxygen. After a craniotomy, the client may experience decreased oxygen levels due to the surgical procedure, anesthesia, or potential complications. Administering oxygen helps ensure adequate oxygenation to the brain and tissues. Placing the client in a supine or Trendelenburg position can increase intracranial pressure, which is contraindicated post-craniotomy. Monitoring for arrhythmias is important, but ensuring oxygenation takes precedence as hypoxia can have immediate detrimental effects on brain function.