ch 11: pain

What types of self-reporting pain scales are available to the nurse to help patients relate their pain?

descriptive, visual, numeric

How can the nurse achieve the most consistent interpretation of patient pain ratings?

Use the same set of pain scales other nurses use

What vital signs may be expected to change in the patient with acute pain?

blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate

A patient in acute pain may vocalize his or her pain in which ways?

grunting, groaning, crying

The nurse can identify pain in infants through what leg activity?

restless, drawn, kicking

Which facial expressions indicate pain in young children?

constant frown, clenched jaw

The nurse is assessing a nonverbal adult. What nonverbal vocal complaints would indicate pain?

moans, grunts, gasps

1. What is one limitation to most self-reporting pain scales relating to the patient's perception of pain?

Very few include the patient's emotional response.

2. Which type of self-reporting scale is shown?

Visual

3. When assessing a patient's pain, the nurse should remember that which actions may increase the pain felt?

moving, coughing, deep breathing

4. The nurse is examining a patient and identifies a facial mask of pain. What features characterize this expression?

lackluster eyes, wrinkled forehead, grimace

5. Which patient behaviors are associated with pain?

guarding, head rocking, scattered movement

6. Which body movements may indicate pain in a patient?

rubbing, pacing, Inability to keep the hands still

7. Which activities suggest that an infant is not in pain?

Lying quietly, Resting in a normal position

8. What patient characteristics should a nurse look at when observing an infant for pain?

Facial expression, Activity, Leg movement

9. Which pain scale is best to use for young children over the age of 3?

FACES

FACES rating scale is best for young children over the age of 3.

10. Match the patient with the most appropriate pain scale.

Older adult: Self-report pain scale

Young children over 3 years: FACES rating scale

Infants: CRIES scale