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    RN Comprehensive Predictor Proctored Exam (National U CA San Diego)

    A nurse is assessing a client who has a brain tumor and is receiving palliative care. Which of the following findings indicates the nurse should administer pain medication?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Rationale: A. Mottled skin: Mottling is typically a late sign of poor perfusion or approaching death and does not indicate pain. It reflects circulatory changes rather than discomfort requiring analgesia. B. Constricted pupils: Constricted pupils may result from certain medications or neurological changes, but they are not a reliable indicator of pain. Pupillary changes alone do not guide pain management. C. Restlessness: Restlessness is a common manifestation of pain in clients receiving palliative care, especially when verbal communication is limited. Administering prescribed pain medication can help alleviate discomfort and improve comfort. D. Cheyne-Stokes respirations: This irregular breathing pattern occurs in advanced illness or near end-of-life and is not an indicator of pain. It reflects neurological or metabolic changes rather than discomfort requiring analgesia.

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