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 D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Canned vegetables with additional table salt are not a good choice for someone with cholecystitis, because they are high in sodium, which can increase fluid retention and inflammation. However, this choice is not eliminated by the client, so it does not indicate successful teaching.
Choice B reason: Pasta with herbal butter and no meat sauce is a good choice for someone with cholecystitis, because it is low in fat and protein, which can trigger gallbladder contractions and pain. This choice is not eliminated by the client, so it does not indicate successful teaching.
Choice C reason: Citrus fruit and melon with a salt substitute are also good choices for someone with cholecystitis, because they are high in vitamin C and water, which can help dissolve gallstones and prevent infection. This choice is not eliminated by the client, so it does not indicate successful teaching.
Choice D reason: Whole milk and daily servings of ice cream are bad choices for someone with cholecystitis, because they are high in fat and cholesterol, which can worsen gallbladder inflammation and increase the risk of gallstone formation. This choice is eliminated by the client, so it indicates successful teaching.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Applying prescribed lotions to the radiation site is a good action for a client with cancer receiving external beam radiation, because it can help moisturize and protect the skin from irritation and breakdown. The client should follow the instructions of the health care provider regarding the type and frequency of lotion application. Therefore, this choice does not indicate a need for further teaching.
Choice B reason: Washing the radiation site with antibacterial soap and water is a bad action for a client with cancer receiving external beam radiation, because it can cause dryness, inflammation, and infection of the skin. The client should use mild soap and water or saline solution to gently cleanse the area without rubbing or scrubbing. Therefore, this choice indicates a need for further teaching.
Choice C reason: Wearing clothing to cover the radiation site is a good action for a client with cancer receiving external beam radiation, because it can help shield the skin from sun exposure and friction. The client should wear loose-fitting, soft, cotton clothing that does not irritate or constrict the area. Therefore, this choice does not indicate a need for further teaching.
Choice D reason: Drying the area with patting motions after taking a shower is a good action for a client with cancer receiving external beam radiation, because it can help prevent trauma and infection of the skin. The client should avoid rubbing or scratching the area or using hair dryers or heating pads on it. Therefore, this choice does not indicate a need for further teaching.
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