If a client who underwent a lobectomy reports pain while coughing after 48 hours, what should the nurse do?

When a client reports pain while coughing 48 hours after a lobectomy, obtaining a more detailed assessment of the client's pain using a pain scale is crucial. This assessment allows the nurse to determine the severity and nature of the pain, which is essential for effective pain management. Understanding the specifics of the pain—such as its intensity, location, and any associated symptoms—guides the nurse in deciding on an appropriate intervention and ensures that the pain is managed effectively.

Coughing can put significant strain on the surgical site, and pain is a common experience post-operatively; however, the need for further assessment indicates that simply managing pain or encouraging activities without understanding the underlying issue might not be sufficient. Detailed pain assessment can also help differentiate between expected post-operative pain and potential complications, such as infection or inadequate healing, enabling timely interventions when necessary. Thus, effective nursing care involves comprehensive assessment of pain to tailor management strategies appropriately.