RN ATI Comprehensive Assessment Exam Retake 2023 V2 Related

Review RN ATI Comprehensive Assessment Exam Retake 2023 V2 related questions and content

A nurse is planning care for a school-age child who is 4 hr postoperative following appendicitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

  • A. Apply a warm compress to the operative site once daily
  • B. Administer analgesics on a scheduled basis for the first 24 hr
  • C. Give cromolyn nebulized solution every 8 hr.
  • D. Offer small amounts of clear liquids 6 hr following surgery
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Administer analgesics on a scheduled basis for the first 24 hr. Postoperative pain management is crucial to ensure the child's comfort and facilitate recovery. Administering analgesics on a scheduled basis helps maintain a consistent level of pain relief and prevents breakthrough pain. This approach is especially important in the immediate postoperative period when pain levels are typically higher. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because applying a warm compress, giving cromolyn nebulized solution, and offering clear liquids are not primary interventions for postoperative pain management in this scenario. Option D specifically is not recommended as clear liquids are usually introduced gradually to prevent complications. Providing analgesics on a scheduled basis is the best course of action to address the child's immediate postoperative pain effectively.