A client with gouty arthritis reports tenderness and swelling of the right ankle and great toe. The nurse observes the area of inflammation extends above the ankle area. The client receives prescriptions for colchicine and indomethacin. Which instruction should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
Return for periodic liver function studies.
Massage joints to relax muscles and decrease pain.
Limit use of mobility equipment to avoid muscle atrophy.
Substitute natural fruit juices for carbonated drinks.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Returning for periodic liver function studies is an important instruction for a client with gouty arthritis who is taking colchicine and indomethacin. These medications can cause liver toxicity, which can manifest as jaundice, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and dark urine. The nurse should advise the client to monitor for these signs and symptoms, and to have regular blood tests to check the liver enzymes and function.
Choice B reason: Massaging joints to relax muscles and decrease pain is not a recommended instruction for a client with gouty arthritis who has acute inflammation of the right ankle and great toe. Massage can increase the blood flow and pressure to the affected joints, which can worsen the pain and swelling. The nurse should advise the client to avoid touching or moving the inflamed joints, and to apply ice packs or cold compresses to reduce the inflammation.
Choice C reason: Limiting use of mobility equipment to avoid muscle atrophy is not a necessary instruction for a client with gouty arthritis who has acute inflammation of the right ankle and great toe. Mobility equipment such as crutches, walkers, or canes can help the client to ambulate safely and comfortably, and to prevent further injury or damage to the affected joints. The nurse should encourage the client to use mobility equipment as needed, and to perform gentle range of motion exercises when the inflammation subsides.
Choice D reason: Substituting natural fruit juices for carbonated drinks is not a helpful instruction for a client with gouty arthritis who is taking colchicine and indomethacin. Fruit juices can contain high amounts of fructose, which can increase the uric acid levels in the blood and trigger gout attacks. Carbonated drinks are not a major risk factor for gout, unless they contain high-fructose corn syrup or alcohol. The nurse should advise the client to drink plenty of water, and to avoid foods and beverages that are high in purines, such as organ meats, seafood, beer, and wine.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: The humoral immune response is mediated by B cells that produce antibodies against specific antigens. However, this response is not the main problem in AIDS, because B cells are not directly affected by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that causes AIDS. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice B reason: The cellular immune response is mediated by T lymphocytes that activate other immune cells, such as macrophages, to destroy infected or abnormal cells. This response is the main problem in AIDS, because HIV infects and destroys CD4+ T cells, which are essential for coordinating the cellular immunity. As a result, the client becomes susceptible to opportunistic infections, such as Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia. Therefore, this choice is correct.
Choice C reason: Bone marrow suppression of white blood cells can cause immunodeficiency, but it is not the primary cause of AIDS. Bone marrow suppression can occur as a side effect of some drugs or treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, but it is not directly caused by HIV. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice D reason: Exposure to multiple environmental infectious agents can challenge the immune system, but it does not necessarily cause it to fail. The immune system can adapt and respond to different pathogens, unless it is compromised by an underlying condition, such as AIDS. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Irregular ulcer shapes and severe edema are characteristic of venous ulcers, which are caused by impaired venous return and increased capillary pressure. Venous ulcers are usually located near the medial malleolus and have a shallow depth.
Choice B reason: Hairless lower extremities and cool feet are signs of arterial insufficiency, which reduces blood flow and oxygen delivery to the tissues. Arterial ulcers are usually located on the toes, heels, or lateral malleoli and have a deep, punched-out appearance.
Choice C reason: Black ulcers and dependent rubor are also signs of arterial insufficiency, indicating tissue necrosis and inflammation. Dependent rubor is a reddish-blue color of the lower extremity that occurs when the leg is lowered below the level of the heart.
Choice D reason: Absent pedal pulses and shiny skin are also signs of arterial insufficiency, indicating reduced blood flow and atrophy of the skin. The skin may also be dry, scaly, or cracked.
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