ATI Pathophysiology Final Exam Related

Review ATI Pathophysiology Final Exam related questions and content

A nurse on a postsurgical unit is providing care for a 76-year-old female client who is two days post-hemiarthroplasty (hip replacement) and who states that her pain has been out of control for the last several hours, though she is not exhibiting signs of pain. Which guideline should the nurse use for short-term and long-term treatment of the client's pain?

  • A. Pain is what the client says it is, even if she is not exhibiting outward signs.
  • B. Pain should be treated only when it is associated with observable symptoms.
  • C. Long-term opioid use is generally safe for elderly clients in a hospital setting.
  • D. The client's pain should be reassessed after every dose of pain medication.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Pain is a subjective experience, and the client's report of pain should be taken seriously even if there are no outward signs. Choice B is incorrect because pain can be present without observable symptoms, and waiting for observable signs may delay appropriate pain management. Choice C is incorrect because the safety of long-term opioid use in elderly clients is a complex issue and should be carefully evaluated due to the risk of adverse effects. Choice D is incorrect because while pain reassessment is important, it should not be limited to just after medication administration but should occur regularly to ensure adequate pain control.