A 10-year-old boy who had an appendectomy had expressed worry that following the procedure he would have lots of pain. Two days after the procedure the child is claiming he is having no pain. Which nursing intervention should the nurse prioritize when assessing this child?

Choice A reason: Observing for physical signs like grimacing or guarding ensures accurate pain assessment, as a 10-year-old may underreport pain. This aligns with pediatric pain assessment protocols, making it the prioritized intervention to verify the child’s claim of no pain post-appendectomy accurately. Choice B reason: A color pain scale relies on the child’s verbal report, which may be unreliable if he’s minimizing pain. Observing physical signs is more objective, making this secondary and incorrect compared to the nurse’s priority of assessing for hidden pain in the post-surgical child. Choice C reason: Explaining to the caregiver assumes no pain without objective assessment, risking missed discomfort. Observing physical signs confirms the child’s status, making this premature and incorrect compared to the nurse’s role in thoroughly assessing pain in the 10-year-old post-appendectomy. Choice D reason: Asking the child to report pain later depends on his willingness, which may be inconsistent. Observing physical signs provides immediate data, making this passive and incorrect compared to the nurse’s priority of actively assessing for pain in the child post-appendectomy procedure.