ATI RN Custom Exams Set 1 Related

Review ATI RN Custom Exams Set 1 related questions and content

Six hours after major abdominal surgery, a male client complains of severe abdominal pain; is pale and perspiring; has a thready, rapid pulse; and states he feels faint. The nurse checks the client's medication administration record and determines that the client receives another injection of pain medication in an hour. What is the appropriate action by the nurse?

  • A. Explain to the client that it is too early to have an injection for pain
  • B. Call the practitioner, report the client's symptoms, and obtain further orders
  • C. Reposition the client for greater comfort and turn on the television as a distraction
  • D. Prepare the injection and administer it to the client early because of the severe pain
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation is to call the practitioner, report the client's symptoms, and obtain further orders. The client's symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, pallor, perspiration, thready rapid pulse, and feeling faint, are indicative of potential complications like internal bleeding, which require immediate medical evaluation. Explaining to the client that it is too early for pain medication or repositioning the client for comfort are not appropriate actions given the severity of the symptoms. Administering the injection early without consulting the practitioner can be dangerous and may worsen the client's condition.