Asked by Erika Pullaro on Jul 02, 2024
Verified
What is the most appropriate way to assess the pain of a patient who is oriented and has recently had surgery?
A) Assess the patient's body language.
B) Observe cardiac monitor for increased heart rate.
C) Ask the patient to rate the level of pain.
D) Ask the patient to describe the effect of pain on the ability to cope.
Assess
To evaluate or estimate the nature, ability, or quality of something.
Oriented
The state of being aware of oneself and the environment, often used in assessing mental status, including awareness of time, place, and person.
Cardiac Monitor
A device used to track the electrical activity of the heart continuously, providing vital data for medical assessments.
- Appreciate the significance of assessing pain accurately, using appropriate scales and methods, especially in patients with communication barriers.
Verified Answer
ZK
Zybrea KnightJul 02, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
Pain is a subjective measure.Therefore,the best way to assess a patient's pain is to ask the patient to rate the pain.Nonverbal communication,such as body language,is not as effective in assessing pain,especially when the patient is oriented.Heart rate sometimes increases when a patient is in pain,but this is not a symptom that is specific to pain.Pain sometimes affects a patient's ability to cope,but assessing the effect of pain on coping assesses the patient's ability to cope;it does not assess the patient's pain.
Learning Objectives
- Appreciate the significance of assessing pain accurately, using appropriate scales and methods, especially in patients with communication barriers.