A child has come into the emergency department after a confirmed bite from a brown recluse. Which action can the nurse take to alleviate pain?
Place an ace wrap on the bite.
Administer Benadryl.
Elevate the affected area.
Apply a cool compress.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answers are choices B. Administer Benadryl, and D. Apply a cool compress.
Choice A rationale:
Placing an ace wrap on the bite is not recommended for a brown recluse spider bite. This action could potentially worsen the situation as it might trap venom in the area and increase the risk of necrosis.
Choice B rationale:
Administering Benadryl is a suitable action for alleviating pain and managing allergic reactions related to the bite. Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an antihistamine that can help reduce itching and inflammation.
Choice C rationale:
Elevating the affected area might not provide significant pain relief for a brown recluse spider bite. Elevating is generally more effective for reducing swelling associated with injuries involving fluid accumulation, like sprains or strains.
Choice D rationale:
Applying a cool compress to the bite area can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Cold therapy constricts blood vessels, which can reduce swelling and numb the area, providing relief.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Sparse hair.
Choice A rationale:
Sleepiness is not a typical symptom of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone, leads to a slower metabolism which can cause fatigue, but not necessarily sleepiness.
Choice B rationale:
Weight loss is not associated with hypothyroidism. In fact, weight gain is a common symptom due to the reduced metabolic rate caused by insufficient thyroid hormone levels.
Choice C rationale:
Sparse hair is a characteristic symptom of hypothyroidism. The thyroid hormones play a crucial role in the growth and maintenance of hair follicles. In hypothyroidism, hair can become brittle, thin, and sparse.
Choice D rationale:
Diarrhea is not a typical symptom of hypothyroidism. Constipation, on the other hand, is more commonly associated with this condition due to the slowed digestive processes caused by low thyroid hormone levels.
Choice E rationale:
Puffiness around the eyes is not typically associated with hypothyroidism. However, it is a symptom of another thyroid disorder known as Graves' disease, which is characterized by hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. "Currant jelly" stools.
Choice A rationale:
Loose, foul-smelling stools are not characteristic of intussusception. Intussusception is a condition in which a part of the intestine invaginates into another part, causing obstruction. This obstruction often leads to "currant jelly" stools, which are composed of mucus, blood, and sloughed intestinal tissue. Loose stools might be associated with other gastrointestinal issues but are not a hallmark of intussusception.
Choice B rationale:
Ribbon-like stools are characteristic of intussusception. When a section of the intestine telescopes into another section, it can cause the stool to be squeezed into a ribbon-like shape as it passes through the narrowed portion. This description aligns with the pathophysiology of intussusception.
Choice C rationale:
Hard stools positive for guaiac indicate the presence of blood in the stool, but this finding is not specific to intussusception. Guaiac testing detects occult blood, which could be present in various gastrointestinal conditions, including bleeding ulcers or diverticulitis, and not exclusively in intussusception.
Choice D rationale:
"Currant jelly" stools are characteristic of intussusception. As mentioned earlier, these stools are the result of the obstruction and subsequent damage to the intestinal lining, leading to the presence of blood, mucus, and sloughed tissue. This description is a classic sign of intussusception and should raise suspicion for this condition.
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