The nurse is assessing a 3-month-old infant who had a pyloromyotomy yesterday. This child should be medicated for pain based on which finding(s)? (Select all that apply.).
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale: Increased temperature alone is not a sufficient indication for pain medication in a post-pyloromyotomy infant. Fever can have various causes, and pain should be assessed based on other factors. Choice B rationale: Increased pulse rate can be an indication of pain in an infant following surgery like pyloromyotomy. It's important to assess the overall clinical picture and consider pain management if other signs are present. Choice C rationale: Increased respiratory rate alone is not a specific indicator of pain in a post-pyloromyotomy infant. Respiratory rate can vary for many reasons, so it should not be the sole criterion for pain management. Choice D rationale: Increased pulse rate is a potential sign of pain in a post-pyloromyotomy infant and should be considered when assessing the need for pain medication. Choice E rationale: Restlessness is often a sign of discomfort or pain in infants. Restlessness, along with other clinical indicators, can guide the decision to administer pain medication. Choice F rationale: Clenched fists can be a sign of discomfort or pain in infants, and it should be considered when assessing the need for pain management.