Author Question: A client has just returned from back surgery. He has an epidural catheter in place for postoperative ... (Read 59 times)

KimWrice · **on:** Jul 24, 2018

A client has just returned from back surgery. He has an epidural catheter in place for postoperative pain control. The nurse knows that which of the following is true about an epidural catheter?

a. The catheter can be used to administer medications other than the prescribed pain medication.
b. All opioid analgesics used for epidural administration must be preservative-free.
c. Respiratory depression does not occur when the epidural catheter is used for opioid analgesic administration.
d. The epidural catheter is inserted into a vein in the back.

Question 2

After a postoperative client rates her pain level as 6/10. The nurse's first action should be to:

a. assess the client's position for alignment and comfort.
b. assist the client to the bathroom to void.
c. administer the medication as prescribed.
d. turn off the client's television.

rosiehomeworddo · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 24, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B

Feedback
A Incorrect: Only certain medications can be administered via epidural.
B Correct: All opioid analgesics used for epidural administration must be preservative-free.
C Incorrect: Respiratory depression can occur with epidural analgesia.
D Incorrect: The epidural catheter is inserted into the epidural space of the spinal column.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A

Feedback
A Correct: The client's position should be assessed for alignment and comfort and the client repositioned as needed.
B Incorrect: This is only done if the client needs to void, which would be more comfortable after the administration of the analgesia.
C Incorrect: The client's position should be assessed to see if this is contributing to her level of pain.
D Incorrect: Diversion is a pain-relieving measure.