Answer Happy

Questions to Ask Yourself 1. As you are helping Mrs. Rider walk to the bathroom so she can brush her teeth before bed, she suddenly sucks in her breath and grabs her side. You ask her if she needs to sit down and she says, "No, I'm fine. I think something I ate at dinner just isn't agreeing with me. The pain is gone now." List five questions you would ask Mrs. Rider to gain a better understanding of the pain that she is experiencing. 2. Lately you have noticed that Mr. Bowen, one of your home health clients, seems to be having more difficulty moving. When you ask him if he is experiencing any pain, he says he is fine. His daughter also mentions to you that although her father used to enjoy their weekly trips to church, lately he has said he does not want to go. You are beginning to think that maybe Mr. Bowen is experiencing more discomfort than he is admitting to. List some reasons why Mr. Bowen may be reluctant to tell you about the pain he is experiencing. 3. Mrs. Ricci has osteoarthritis in the joints of her hands, hips and knees. Some days are better than others, but every day she must cope with some amount of pain. How could Mrs. Ricci's chronic pain affect other aspects of her life? 4. Mr. Stanton came to live at the nursing home where you work 2 weeks ago. List some factors that could affect Mr. Stanton's ability to get enough sleep, and describe ways you can help to promote sleep and rest for Mr. Stanton.