A nurse is caring for a client who had a fiberglass cast applied 30 min ago for a fractured tibia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Maintain affected leg elevated on several pillows.
Instruct the client to wiggle the toes once every 4 hr.
Use a hair dryer to promote drying of the cast.
Apply heat to the client's cast to provide pain relief.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should maintain the affected leg elevated on several pillows to reduce swelling and promote venous return. Elevating the leg helps minimize edema, which can be beneficial for the healing process and overall comfort of the client.
Choice B rationale:
Instructing the client to wiggle the toes once every 4 hours is not necessary and may cause discomfort to the fractured tibia. Toe wiggling does not provide any significant benefit in this context and could potentially disrupt the healing process.
Choice C rationale:
Using a hair dryer to promote drying of the cast is not recommended. Applying heat to the fiberglass cast may alter its integrity and lead to uneven drying, potentially weakening the cast's support.
Choice D rationale:
Applying heat to the client's cast for pain relief is not advisable. Heat may also weaken the cast material and is unlikely to provide effective pain relief for a fractured tibia. Instead, the nurse should follow the prescribed pain management plan and use appropriate pain medications as ordered by the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The client's ABG values show a pH of 7.48, PCO2 of 30 mm Hg, HCO3 of 24 mEq/L, and PaO2 of 85 mm Hg. The elevated pH and decreased PCO2 (respiratory component) suggest respiratory alkalosis. Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is excessive ventilation, leading to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels (hypocapnia) and subsequent alkalosis.
Choice B rationale:
Respiratory acidosis is characterized by an elevated PCO2 and decreased pH. In this case, the client's PCO2 is decreased, indicating respiratory alkalosis rather than respiratory acidosis.
Choice C rationale:
Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an elevated HCO3 (bicarbonate) level and an increased pH. The client's HCO3 level is within the normal range, making metabolic alkalosis an incorrect identification.
Choice D rationale:
Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decreased HCO3 level and a decreased pH. The client's HCO3 level is within the normal range, ruling out metabolic acidosis as the acid-base imbalance in this case.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Increasing the intake of dairy products is not recommended for a client with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) as dairy can exacerbate symptoms in some individuals, particularly if they are lactose intolerant.
Choice B rationale:
Drinking ten glasses of water each day is a helpful recommendation for clients with IBS. Staying hydrated can aid in digestion and help alleviate symptoms like constipation.
Choice C rationale:
Decreasing daily fiber intake to 20 grams is not advisable for IBS management. Adequate fiber intake is essential for maintaining bowel regularity and overall gut health. Instead, it is recommended to focus on soluble fiber and gradually increase fiber intake to avoid exacerbating symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
Encouraging the intake of clear carbonated fluids is not ideal for clients with IBS. Carbonated beverages can cause bloating and gas, potentially worsening symptoms in individuals with sensitive digestive systems. It is better to recommend non-carbonated, non-caffeinated fluids for hydration.
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