Question

ARNING TEMPLATE: Therapeutic Procedure TUDENT NAME ODENSE NAME PROCEDUR A Managemc o vciGREVIEW MODULE CHAPTER Teaching about a transcurances Electrical Nerve Simulathon Unit 23 Description of Procedure Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) skin Indications CONSIDERATIONS Nursing Interventions (pre, intra, post Outcomes/Evaluation Client Education Nursing Interventions Potential Complications

Answer 1

Description of procedure

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) therapy involves the use of low-voltage electric currents to treat pain. Electrodes or mediums for electricity to travel to the body, placed on the body at the site of pain deliver electricity that travels through the nerve fibers. The electric currents block the pain receptors from being sent from the nerves to the brain. A patient will receive a small, battery operated TENS machine to use at home. In most cases, a doctor, physical therapist, or acupuncturist adjusts the machine to the correct settings. The provider shows the patient how to use the machine before sending him or her home with the TENS device.

Indication

TENS therapy can be used to treat both chronic (long lasting) and acute (short-term) pain. The most common conditions that TENS therapy is used to treat are:

• Osteoporosis-related joint, bone, or muscle problems
• Fibromyalgia-related joint, bone, or muscle problems
• Tendinitis (muscle tissue inflammation)
• Bursitis (inflammation of the fluid-filled pads that cushion the joints)
• Neck pain
• Labor pain
• Cancer pain

outcomes/evaluations

The analysis indicated that TENS should be considered as a complex intervention, with benefits which extend beyond pain relief, including a red uction in muscle sensations (such as tension and spasm), and di straction from pain as separate benefits. Patients reported using TENS in a strategic manner, for example in order to manage pain fl are-ups, ach ieve functiona l goals, enhance rest periods and reduce medication.

potential complications and nursing intervention

A patient must know how to properly use the TENS device to avoid any damage or injury. There are typically no side effects when using TENS therapy. In rare cases, patients may have burns or rashes at the sites where the electrodes are placed. No other risks or side effects are known.

Respiratory compromise: a rare complication of
transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for
angina pectoris