Care Manager Certification Practice Exam

When caring for a postoperative client reporting pain, which action should the nurse prioritize?

1. Offer the client a back rub.

2. Identify the client's pain level.

3. Assist the client to ambulate.

4. Change the client's position.

The correct answer is: Identify the client's pain level.

In this scenario, prioritizing the identification of the client’s pain level is crucial for effective postoperative care. Understanding the intensity and nature of the pain allows the nurse to tailor interventions appropriately, ensuring the client's needs are met effectively. By assessing the pain level, the nurse can gather important data that informs the choice of pain management strategies, such as administering medication or considering non-pharmacological therapies. While actions such as offering a back rub, assisting with ambulation, or changing the client’s position can certainly contribute to their comfort and recovery, these measures are less effective if the underlying pain is not first assessed. Without knowing the severity or specific characteristics of the pain, any action taken might not address the root cause of the client's discomfort. Therefore, identifying the pain level establishes a foundation for all subsequent care decisions and interventions.