A nurse is caring for a client started on Phenazopyridine (Pyridium). Which of the following indicates this medication is effective?

A. Hypovolemic shock: Hypovolemic shock occurs when there is a significant loss of blood or fluids in the body, leading to insufficient blood volume to maintain normal circulation. Symptoms include rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, confusion, and cold, clammy skin. While hypovolemic shock is a concern in trauma patients, the symptoms described by the client (shortness of breath and chest pain) are not typical of hypovolemic shock.

B. Fat embolism syndrome: Fat embolism syndrome occurs when fat particles are released into the bloodstream, often after a long bone fracture or trauma. These fat particles can block small blood vessels, leading to symptoms such as respiratory distress, confusion, and petechial rash (small red or purple spots under the skin). While fat embolism syndrome is a concern in patients with long bone fractures, the symptoms described by the client are more suggestive of a pulmonary embolism.

C. Venous thromboembolism (VTE): VTE refers to the formation of blood clots in the veins. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs, while pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs. Symptoms of PE can include sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, and cough, which may produce bloody or blood-streaked sputum. Given the client's symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pain, VTE, specifically pulmonary embolism, is a significant concern.

D. Compartment syndrome: Compartment syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure within a muscle compartment, leading to reduced blood flow and potential nerve damage. Symptoms can include severe pain, swelling, and numbness or tingling. While compartment syndrome is a complication of fractures, the symptoms described by the client (shortness of breath and chest pain) are not characteristic of compartment syndrome.

A. Increased thickness of the subcutaneous skin layer - Aging typically results in thinning of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, making older adults more vulnerable to pressure ulcers rather than having increased thickness.

B. Changes in the character and quantity of bacterial skin flora - This is a common age-related change; however, it is not directly related to the course of treatment for a sacral pressure ulcer. Proper wound care can mitigate the impact of changes in skin flora.

C. Increased time required for wound healing - Aging often leads to a decline in the body's ability to repair and regenerate tissues, which can prolong the healing process of wounds, including pressure ulcers. Older adults may experience delayed wound healing compared to younger individuals.

D. Increased elasticity of the skin - Skin elasticity decreases with age, making older adults more susceptible to skin breakdown and pressure ulcers due to reduced skin resilience and ability to redistribute pressure. Increased elasticity would not affect the course of treatment positively but rather negatively in this context.