Question

A client who's aphasic and has left-sided paralysis after sustaining a stroke is scheduled for debridement of a left leg ulcer. Whenever passive range-of-motion (ROM) exercises are performed on the left leg, the client grimaces and moans. Which action should the nurse take before the physician performs the debridement?

Answer 1

The nurse should report the patient's pain indicated by grimacing and moaning to the physician who might prescribe pain management before the debridement procedure.

Step-by-step explanation:

Before the physician performs the debridement on a client who is aphasic and has left-sided paralysis after a stroke, it is crucial to address the client's pain response during passive range-of-motion (ROM) exercises. The client's grimacing and moaning suggest discomfort or pain, which may be worsened by the debridement procedure.

The nurse should report these pain indicators to the physician, who might prescribe an appropriate analgesic or anesthetic before proceeding. It is imperative to ensure that the client is as comfortable as possible to avoid further distress and to facilitate healing. Pain management is a key component in post-stroke care and should be prioritized in this patient's treatment plan.