A terminally ill elderly patient begins to call out for help and is seen lying stiffly in bed, rubbing her left thigh. The nurse believes that which of the following is occurring with this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It might be difficult to correctly assess an elderly terminally ill patient's level of pain. Signs of pain may include physical reactions such as restlessness, lack of movement, or by increased or slower movements, rubbing or guarding a body part, rigidity or sleeping in a rigid position. At times, patients trying to get attention may be expressing pain issues. Since the patient is found lying stiffly in bed, rubbing her left thigh, and calling out for help, the nurse would correct assess that the patient could be experiencing pain. There is not enough information to determine whether the patient is confused, lonely, or sad.

A Terminally Ill Elderly Patient Begins to Call Out for Help