What initial intervention should the PN take for a client who has difficulty sleeping after orthopedic surgery?

For a client experiencing difficulty sleeping after orthopedic surgery, repositioning the client and providing a back rub serves as a very effective initial intervention. This approach promotes comfort and relaxation, which are crucial for improving sleep quality, especially in a postoperative setting where pain and discomfort are common due to surgical recovery.

Repositioning can relieve pressure points that may be causing discomfort, while a back rub can help relax tense muscles and reduce anxiety, both of which contribute to a more restful state. This method focuses on non-pharmacological interventions, which are often preferred in the immediate recovery phase to first assess the client's needs without introducing medication side effects.

Other options like administering sedative medication could potentially mask underlying issues without addressing comfort needs or may not be appropriate immediately after surgery. Increasing room lighting is counterproductive, as dim lighting is typically more conducive to sleep. Encouraging deep breaths may assist with relaxation but may not directly address the discomfort that is often present after surgery. Thus, repositioning and providing a back rub effectively target both physical comfort and emotional reassurance, which can facilitate improved sleep.