NCLEX: A 66-year-old client in an outpatient clinic is being evaluated for pain assessment during hospitalization. Asses…

Health assessment Reduction of Risk Potential

Case Study

A 66-year-old client in an outpatient clinic is being evaluated for pain assessment during hospitalization. Assessment data include pain 9/10 and guards the abdomen after surgery. Which documentation should the nurse record to best support safe care and communication?

Question

A. Objective assessment findings, nursing actions taken, client response, and provider notification when indicated.
B. "Client fine; no changes noted."
C. Copied yesterday's note without updating current assessment data.
D. Subjective opinions only without measurable findings.

Rationale

Correct answer: A. Objective assessment findings, nursing actions taken, client response, and provider notification when indicated.

Rationale: Safe documentation is specific, objective, and reflects assessment, intervention, response, and escalation when needed.

Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.

Level: Foundational

Difficulty: Easy

Subtopic: Pain assessment