Question

A patient comes to the clinic for treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. On previous visits, the patient has described the pain as a 5 on a scale of 0 to 10, but today the patient describes the pain as a 7. The patient cannot think of any change in the way he has been using his wrists, and he has been complying with the recommended treatment protocol. Which of the following would be an appropriate question for the nurse to ask?

1) "Do you think the pain is really a 5, not a 7?"

2) "Do you feel pain elsewhere in your body?"

3) "Have you been under stress, perhaps at work or at home?"

4) "Have you started a new exercise program?"

Answer 1

The appropriate question for the nurse to ask in this scenario is "Have you been under stress, perhaps at work or at home?"

Step-by-step explanation:

Pain perception is a complex interplay of physical and psychosocial factors. The patient's consistent pain level of 5 on a scale of 0 to 10 has suddenly increased to 7, despite adherence to the recommended treatment protocol and no reported change in wrist use. In such cases, exploring non-physical contributors becomes crucial.

Stress, whether from work or home, can significantly impact pain experiences. Stress-induced physiological responses may heighten pain sensitivity, leading to an escalation in perceived pain levels.

By inquiring about stress, the nurse acknowledges the multifaceted nature of pain and its potential psychological roots. Stress management strategies, such as relaxation techniques or counseling, can be integrated into the treatment plan to address the broader context of the patient's well-being. This holistic approach aligns with patient-centered care, ensuring that interventions are tailored to individual circumstances.

Understanding the role of stress provides valuable insights for refining the treatment strategy and improving overall outcomes.

Therefore, the correct option is : 3) "Have you been under stress, perhaps at work or at home?"

Answer 2

The appropriate question for the nurse to ask in this scenario would be: 3) "Have you been under stress, perhaps at work or at home?"

Step-by-step explanation:

Stress can significantly contribute to the exacerbation of symptoms in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The nervous system's response to stress can lead to increased muscle tension and inflammation, potentially worsening pain and discomfort associated with CTS.

By addressing the potential role of stress, the nurse can explore additional factors influencing the patient's condition beyond physical activities. This question aligns with a holistic approach to patient care, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and psychological well-being.

Furthermore, stress management strategies can be incorporated into the overall treatment plan for CTS, including relaxation techniques, ergonomic adjustments, and lifestyle modifications. Identifying and addressing stressors may enhance the effectiveness of the treatment protocol and contribute to the patient's overall well-being. It's crucial for healthcare professionals to consider the multifaceted nature of pain and explore various contributing factors to provide comprehensive and patient-centered care.

In summary, asking about stress allows the nurse to delve into potential psychosocial factors affecting the patient's experience of pain, contributing to a more thorough assessment and a tailored approach to managing carpal tunnel syndrome.