PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

What approach is prioritized for pain management in a client with pericarditis?

1. Administering opioid medications consistently.

2. Encouraging deep breathing techniques.

3. Applying heat to the chest area.

4. Assisting with positioning to relieve pain.

The correct answer is: Assisting with positioning to relieve pain.

The priority for pain management in a client with pericarditis involves assisting with positioning to relieve pain. This condition often leads to sharp, pleuritic chest pain, which can be worsened by certain body positions, such as lying flat. By helping the patient find a comfortable position, often sitting up or leaning forward, you can significantly decrease the intensity of the pain. Positioning can allow for better lung expansion and may also help reduce pressure on the pericardium, thereby alleviating discomfort. This approach is especially important as it not only addresses the immediate need for pain relief but also minimizes the potential for dependency on medications like opioids, which should be used judiciously due to their side effects and risks. While other methods like applying heat, encouraging deep breathing, and administering medications may provide some pain relief, they do not directly target the mechanical factors that contribute to the discomfort associated with pericarditis as effectively as positioning does. Hence, assisting with positioning becomes a fundamental and straightforward intervention in managing this type of pain.