A nurse is assessing a client's adaptation to a new diagnosis of osteoarthritis. Which of the following client statements should indicate to the nurse that the client is managing the disease?
"I have been taking acetaminophen when my knees start to hurt."
"I've been sleeping on my back with a large pillow under my knees."
"I have been exercising every day, even when I have pain."
"I've been changing my lidocaine patches every 18 hours."
The Correct Answer is A
A) "I have been taking acetaminophen when my knees start to hurt.":
Taking acetaminophen for pain relief indicates that the client is managing the osteoarthritis symptoms appropriately. Acetaminophen is a recommended first-line treatment for mild to moderate pain associated with osteoarthritis and can help improve the client's quality of life by reducing discomfort.
B) "I've been sleeping on my back with a large pillow under my knees.":
Sleeping with a large pillow under the knees can cause the knees to remain in a flexed position for prolonged periods, potentially leading to joint stiffness and worsening pain. This practice is not typically recommended for clients with osteoarthritis as it can exacerbate symptoms.
C) "I have been exercising every day, even when I have pain.":
While regular exercise is beneficial for managing osteoarthritis, it is important to avoid exercising through significant pain. Pain during exercise may indicate overuse or joint damage. Clients should be encouraged to modify their activities to prevent further joint stress and manage symptoms effectively.
D) "I've been changing my lidocaine patches every 18 hours.":
Lidocaine patches are typically designed for 12-hour application periods, followed by a 12-hour off period. Changing the patches every 18 hours may not provide the intended relief and could lead to inconsistent pain management. Proper use of pain management techniques is essential for effective disease management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Check skin temperature distal to the injury with the dorsum of the hand.: Assessing skin temperature distal to the injury is an important part of evaluating neurovascular status. It helps to identify any changes in circulation or potential complications like ischemia. The dorsum of the hand is commonly used as it provides a good comparison to the temperature of the affected extremity.
B. Press the heel of the foot to determine capillary refill.: While capillary refill is an important assessment, it is usually measured by pressing the nail beds or pads of the fingers and toes, not by pressing the heel. This method does not provide a reliable indication of neurovascular status.
C. Monitor sensation by palpating the pad of the great toe with a blunt needle.: While assessing sensation is important, it is typically done using a light touch or pinprick, rather than palpating with a blunt needle. The use of a needle is not standard practice for this type of assessment.
D. Compare the color of the skin proximal to the injury with the other extremity.: Comparing the skin color distal to the injury with the unaffected extremity is more relevant for evaluating neurovascular status. Proximal comparison is less effective in assessing circulation and potential issues related to the injury.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Herpes zoster
This condition, also known as shingles, is characterized by a painful, blistering rash that follows a nerve path. It typically presents as grouped vesicles rather than generalized edema and erythema, making it unlikely in this case.
B) Dermatophytosis
Commonly known as ringworm, this fungal infection usually causes a scaly, ring-shaped rash. It does not typically present with significant edema or erythema as seen with cellulitis, and tenderness is less common.
C) Contact dermatitis
This allergic or irritant reaction usually causes itching, redness, and rash after contact with a substance. While it can cause erythema and pain, it is less likely to cause the significant edema and tenderness observed in cellulitis.
D) Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection characterized by edema, erythema, tenderness, and pain. These symptoms align with the nurse’s findings, indicating an inflammatory response in the deeper layers of the skin, often requiring antibiotic treatment.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
