A client with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is receiving dicyclomine, an anticholinergic drug. Prior to administering the next dose, the practical nurse (PN) determines that the client's mucous membranes are dry, and the client reports having a dry mouth. Which action should the PN take
Check vital signs.
Notify the charge nurse.
Monitor hemoglobin.
Provide oral care.
Observe and report any ear drainage after removing the device.
The Correct Answer is D
Dry mucous membranes and a dry mouth are common side effects of anticholinergic drugs like dicyclomine. These medications block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for stimulating secretions in the body. As a result, the client may experience dryness in various parts of the body, including the mouth.
Providing oral care, such as offering the client sips of water or providing a moistening agent for the mouth, can help alleviate the discomfort caused by dryness and promote oral hygiene. It is an appropriate and immediate intervention for the client's current symptoms.
Incorrect:
A. Checking vital signs may not directly address the client's dry mouth, but it is a good practice to assess the client's overall condition.
B. Monitoring hemoglobin would not be necessary in this situation, as it does not directly relate to the client's dry mucous membranes.
C. Notifying the charge nurse may be appropriate if the client's symptoms worsen or if there are other concerning factors, but the priority action in this case is to provide oral care to address the client's discomfort.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
- Child abuse is the intentional or neglectful physical, emotional, or sexual harm or injury of a child by a parent, caregiver, or other person who has a relationship of trust or responsibility with the child. Child abuse can have serious and long-lasting consequences for the child's health, development, and well-being.
- The practical nurse (PN) has a legal and ethical duty to identify, report, and prevent child abuse. The PN should be alert for any signs and symptoms of child abuse, such as unexplained or inconsistent injuries, bruises, burns, fractures, or scars; behavioral changes, such as fear, anxiety, aggression, withdrawal, or depression; poor hygiene, nutrition, or growth; lack of supervision, medical care, or education; or sexualized behaviors or knowledge .
- The PN should also conduct a thorough and sensitive assessment of the child and the family situation, using open-ended questions, active listening, and non-judgmental attitude. The PN should compare the history and physical findings of the child with the expected developmental milestones and normal variations for the child's age and stage. The PN should also document any relevant information in an objective and factual manner .
- When the mother of a school-aged boy tells the PN that he fell out of a tree and hurt his arm and shoulder, the PN should assess the child's injury and compare it with the mother's explanation. The most significant indicator of possible child abuse in this scenario is if the injury description by the mother varies from the child's version. This may suggest that the mother is lying or covering up the true cause of the injury, which may be intentional or accidental harm by herself or someone else. A discrepancy between the mother's and the child's stories may also indicate that the child is afraid or coerced to hide the truth about the abuse .
- Therefore, option D is the correct answer, while options A, B, and C are incorrect.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Knowing the type of uterine incision from the previous cesarean section is crucial when considering the option of vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). The type of incision can provide important insights into the potential risks and complications associated with a trial of labor.
Specifically, a low transverse uterine incision is considered the most favorable for VBAC, as it has a lower risk of uterine rupture compared to other types of incisions, such as a classical or vertical incision.
A. While information about the client's intent regarding breastfeeding of the newborn is important for providing appropriate support and education, it does not have a direct impact on the decision-making process for VBAC.
C. A history of contracting Herpes simplex virus is relevant to the client's overall health and may have implications for the management of the pregnancy, but it is not directly related to the decision regarding VBAC.
D. The religious preference of the client's family, while important for respecting cultural and spiritual beliefs, does not have a direct impact on the decision-making process for VBAC.
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