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 ["C","E","F"]
Explanation
C.Place pillows around the bed rails to provide padding: During a tonic-clonic seizure, the client may experience uncontrolled movements and convulsions. Placing pillows around the bed rails helps prevent injury by providing padding and cushioning.
E.Increase the supplemental oxygen to 10 L/min via nasal cannula: The client's oxygen saturation is dangerously low at 40%. Increasing the supplemental oxygen to 10 L/min via nasal cannula will help improve oxygenation and prevent hypoxia.
F.Manually ventilate the client with a bag-valve-mask: Since the respiratory rate is only 4 breaths/min, the client is not adequately ventilating on their own. Manual ventilation with a bag-valve maskwill provide necessary oxygenation and ventilation support during the seizure.
The other options are not appropriate actions at this time:
- Begin chest compressions: Chest compressions are indicated if the client's heart has stopped or if they are in cardiac arrest. Since the scenario describes a seizure, the client's heart is presumed to be functioning.
- Watch the seizure activity and document the time and client movement: Although documentation is important, during an active seizure, the priority is to ensure the client's safety and provide immediate interventions. Documentation can be done after the seizure has ended.
- Stop the IV fluids: There is no indication to stop the IV fluids based on the given information. IV fluids are generally continued unless there is a specific reason to discontinue them.
Correct Answer is ["B","E"]
Explanation
The PN should instruct the UAP to observe and report any ear drainage after removing the device, as this may indicate an infection or irritation of the ear canal. The PN should also instruct the UAP to verify that the device is labeled with client's identification, as this can prevent mix-ups or misplacement of the device. The PN should also instruct the UAP to remove ear wax from the device's surface, as this can improve the sound quality and prevent damage to the device.
The other options are not correct because:
a. Keeping the battery door closed during storage is not a correct instruction, as it can drain the battery and shorten its life span. The PN should instruct the UAP to keep the battery door open during storage, as this can conserve the battery power and prevent corrosion.
c. Storing the device on the window sill to prevent loss is not a correct instruction, as it can expose the device to heat, moisture, or sunlight, which can damage its components or affect its function. The PN should instruct the UAP to store the device in a dry, cool, and safe place, such as a case or a drawer.
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