Basic Care and Comfort

Question 1

What is the primary goal when providing comfort care to a patient?

Accepted Answer

To relieve pain and improve well-being

Answer

Comfort care focuses on alleviating suffering and enhancing the patient's quality of life, rather than curing the underlying disease. This involves addressing physical symptoms like pain, nausea, and dyspnea, as well as providing emotional and spiritual support to promote overall well-being.

Question 2

What should the nurse do when a patient expresses fear about a surgical procedure?

Accepted Answer

Listen to the patient, validate their feelings, and provide information

Answer

When a patient expresses fear, it's crucial for the nurse to acknowledge and validate their emotions, fostering trust and a therapeutic relationship. Providing clear, accurate information about the procedure helps alleviate anxiety by reducing uncertainty and empowering the patient with knowledge.

Question 3

Which of the following is an appropriate nursing intervention for a patient experiencing nausea postoperatively?

Accepted Answer

Encourage deep breathing and position the patient on their side

Answer

Postoperative nausea can be distressing and lead to complications like aspiration. Encouraging deep breathing can help distract and calm the patient, while positioning them on their side (e.g., semi-Fowler's or lateral position) helps prevent aspiration if vomiting occurs and can sometimes alleviate nausea.

Question 4

Which action should the nurse take to promote optimal comfort during wound care?

Accepted Answer

Use appropriate pain management before, during, and after the procedure

Answer

Wound care can be painful, and effective pain management is crucial for patient comfort and cooperation. Administering analgesia as needed ensures the patient experiences less discomfort, which also facilitates the nurse's ability to perform thorough wound care.

Question 5

What is the best method for providing comfort to a patient experiencing shortness of breath?

Accepted Answer

Position the patient in a semi-Fowler’s position and provide supplemental oxygen

Answer

Shortness of breath (dyspnea) is often relieved by positioning that optimizes lung expansion and reduces diaphragmatic pressure. A semi-Fowler's position allows for easier breathing, and supplemental oxygen directly increases oxygen saturation, providing immediate relief and improving respiratory function.

NCLEX Practice Test

NCLEX Practice Test

Basic Care and Comfort