A nurse is assessing a client who has Guillain-Barré syndrome. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider immediately?

Choice A Reason

The client reports relief from pain when lying in the prone position. This statement is incorrect. Clients with a herniated lumbar disc typically find relief from pain when lying on their back with their knees bent or in a fetal position. Lying prone can sometimes exacerbate the pain.

Choice B Reason

The client reports that their low-back pain radiates upward toward one scapula. This statement is incorrect. Pain from a herniated lumbar disc usually radiates downward into the buttocks, legs, and sometimes the feet, not upward toward the scapula.

Choice C Reason

The client reports tingling and a burning sensation in one foot. This is the correct finding. A herniated lumbar disc can compress spinal nerves, leading to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and a burning sensation in the legs and feet.

Choice D Reason

The client reports decreased pain when the affected leg is raised. This statement is incorrect. Raising the affected leg often increases pain due to the stretching of the sciatic nerve, which can be compressed by the herniated disc.

Choice A Reason:

Using an electric shaver is recommended for clients who have received chemotherapy because it reduces the risk of cuts and bleeding. Chemotherapy can lower platelet counts, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. Traditional razors can cause nicks and cuts, which can be problematic for clients with low platelet counts.

Choice B Reason:

Avoiding crowds is crucial for clients who have received chemotherapy because their immune systems are often weakened, making them more susceptible to infections. Crowded places increase the risk of exposure to pathogens, which can lead to serious infections in immunocompromised individuals.

Choice C Reason:

Taking temperature weekly is not sufficient for clients who have received chemotherapy. These clients are at a higher risk of infections, and any sign of fever should be monitored closely. It is generally recommended to take the temperature daily or more frequently if the client feels unwell.

Choice D Reason:

Consuming a low-residue diet is not typically necessary for clients who have received chemotherapy unless they are experiencing specific gastrointestinal issues. A balanced diet with adequate nutrients is usually recommended to support overall health and recovery.

Choice E Reason:

Monitoring for bruising is important for clients who have received chemotherapy because it can indicate low platelet counts or other bleeding disorders. Early detection of bruising can help in managing and preventing more serious bleeding complications.