A 67-year-old patient tells the nurse, “l have problems with constipation now that I am older, so I use a suppository every morning” The most appropriate nursing action at this time is to
encourage the patient to drink at least 3000 ml of fluid a day.
suggest that the patient increase dietary intake of foods that are high in fiber.
inform the patient that a daily bowel movement is not necessary.
perform a focused nursing assessment to identify risk factors for constipation.
The Correct Answer is D
Although increasing fluid intake and fiber intake are important interventions for preventing constipation, it is important to first assess the patient's current situation and risk factors for constipation. Additionally, while a daily bowel movement is not necessary for everyone, it is important to understand the patient's usual bowel habits and whether or not their current regimen is effective for them. Therefore, the nurse should perform a focused nursing assessment to identify the patient's risk factors for constipation and evaluate their current bowel regimen before providing specific interventions or recommendations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Furosemide is a loop diuretic that works by blocking the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the ascending loop of Henle in the kidney, leading to increased urine output. However, this medication can also cause potassium loss through increased urinary excretion, which can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium level). Hypokalemia can cause confusion, weakness, and other neurological symptoms.
The normal range for serum potassium is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. A potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L is below the normal range and is considered hypokalemic. Therefore, the nurse should correlate the client's confusion with the low potassium level and notify the healthcare provider to adjust the medication or provide potassium supplements if indicated.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The patient's bounding, rapid pulse and systolic hypertension may indicate cardiovascular complications associated with Graves' disease, such as tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, or congestive heart failure, which can cause chest pain. It is important for the nurse to assess for any symptoms of cardiovascular distress and report any abnormal findings to the healthcare provider for prompt intervention. Questions about appetite and constipation may be relevant to the patient's overall health status, but they are not the most important concern in this situation.
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