The nurse is caring for a client admitted with incomplete fractures of right ribs 5-7. The nurse notes shallow respirations, and the client reports deep pain on inspiration. What is the priority at this time?

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Rib fractures are often the result of blunt thoracic trauma (eg, motor vehicle collision). In the absence of significant internal injuries (eg, pneumothorax, pulmonary contusion, spleen laceration), interventions focus on pain management and pulmonary hygiene techniques (eg, coughing, deep breathing, incentive spirometry). Breaths may become shallow as the client experiences pain with inspiration, which can result in a buildup of secretions, atelectasis, and pneumonia. The nurse should ensure adequate pain control prior to encouraging pulmonary hygiene techniques (Option A). (Options B and C) Interventions focused on removing secretions to improve gas exchange (eg, ambulation, coughing, incentive spirometry) are appropriate after the client's pain is controlled. (Option D) Rib fractures are very painful. Shallow breathing and reports of pain on inspiration are expected findings that do not require immediate notification of the health care provider. Educational objective: Client management for rib fractures focuses on pain control followed by pulmonary hygiene techniques (eg, coughing, deep breathing, incentive spirometry). Without adequate pain control, breathing can become shallow, which may lead to buildup of secretions, atelectasis, and pneumonia.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client Admitted with Incomplete