Types and Sources of Pain in Children

Types and Sources of Pain in Children ( 38 Questions)

A nurse is caring for a 5-year-old child who has been complaining of abdominal pain for the past 24 hours.
The child is able to communicate verbally and is able to describe the pain as "sharp" and "crampy.”..
The child is also guarding the abdomen and has limited range of motion.
Which of the following statements by the nurse would be most appropriate?


Correct Answer: B

Choice A rationale:

Offering medication without a clear diagnosis or doctor's assessment is not appropriate, as it could lead to improper treatment.

The child's condition should be evaluated before administering any medication.

Choice C rationale:

While it is important to assess the child's pain level, this statement doesn't address the need for further evaluation to determine the cause of the pain.

Pain assessment is a part of the nursing process, but in this case, it should be preceded by a medical evaluation.

Choice D rationale:

Complimenting the child for their bravery is a positive interaction, but it doesn't address the need for further evaluation or intervention to identify the cause of the pain.

The rationale for choice B is as follows: In this scenario, the nurse should prioritize the child's safety and well-being.

The child is experiencing abdominal pain described as "sharp" and "crampy," and there are signs of guarding and limited range of motion.

These symptoms could be indicative of a serious underlying issue, such as appendicitis.

Therefore, the most appropriate action is to call the doctor and discuss the need for further tests.

It's essential to rule out any potential surgical or medical emergencies before addressing the pain symptomatically.

This approach ensures that the child's condition is properly evaluated, and appropriate interventions can be initiated if necessary.




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