Pain and Management
Who defines the presence and intensity of pain?
The patient
What is the purpose of a preoperative checklist?
To ensure all pre-surgery tasks and safety checks are completed
What is general anesthesia?
Induced unconsciousness with loss of sensation throughout the body
What is the first nursing priority in the PACU?
Maintain airway and monitor respiratory function
What are the three main layers of the skin?
Epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis
What are two risks of uncontrolled pain?
Delayed healing and decreased mobility
What are three factors that can influence surgical outcomes?
Age, chronic disease, nutrition, emotional response, smoking/drug abuse
What is local or regional anesthesia?
Numbs only a specific part of the body while the patient remains conscious
What cardiovascular changes require attention post-op?
Hypotension, hypertension, or arrhythmias
What are two skin appendages?
Hair and nails
What is one nonpharmacologic pain management method?
Relaxation, heat/cold therapy, guided imagery, or distraction
What is the nurse’s role in informed consent?
Verify the form is signed and ensure patient understanding
What are possible complications of spinal or epidural anesthesia?
Hypotension, headache, or urinary retention
What are signs of wound infection?
Redness, swelling, drainage, warmth, fever
What diagnostic test examines skin under ultraviolet light?
Wood’s light examination
What is a barrier to pain management in healthcare?
Fear of addiction or underreporting of pain
What is one key teaching point for the preoperative patient?
Deep breathing, coughing, early ambulation, NPO status, or surgical prep instructions
What is procedural sedation (conscious sedation)?
Sedation allowing the patient to maintain airway and respond to verbal commands
What are common postoperative complications related to mobility?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism
What are open wet dressings used for?
Reducing inflammation and removing crusts or exudate
What is the difference between pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment?
Pharmacologic uses medication; nonpharmacologic uses alternative measures like positioning or relaxation
What is included in the preadmission surgical patient assessment?
Medications, allergies, health history, physical assessment
What is a key nursing responsibility during intraoperative care?
Maintain sterile technique and monitor for complications
What are discharge teaching points for postoperative patients?
Wound care, signs of infection, medications, activity limits, follow-up appointments
What are effects of aging on the skin?
Thinning skin, decreased elasticity, slower healing, less oil production