A nurse is caring for a client who had radiation therapy and is experiencing painful dermatitis. The nurse should identify the client is experiencing which of the following types of pain?
Cancer pain
Acute pain
Chronic pain
Neuropathic pain
The Correct Answer is A
A. Cancer pain: Cancer pain can result from tumor growth, tissue invasion, or nerve compression caused by cancer. It can be acute or chronic and may vary in intensity. However, in this scenario, the client's pain is specifically associated with dermatitis resulting from radiation therapy, rather than directly from the cancer itself.
B. Acute pain: Acute pain is typically sudden in onset and is often associated with tissue injury or damage. In this case, the painful dermatitis resulting from radiation therapy would be considered acute pain because it is directly related to the recent tissue damage caused by the radiation. Acute pain is usually short-term and resolves as the underlying cause heals or is treated.
C. Chronic pain: Chronic pain persists beyond the expected time for tissue healing and is often associated with conditions such as arthritis or neuropathy. While cancer pain can sometimes become chronic if it persists over time, the pain described in this scenario is more likely to be acute given its association with recent radiation therapy.
D. Neuropathic pain: Neuropathic pain results from damage or dysfunction of the nervous system and can present as shooting or burning sensations. While neuropathic pain can occur in cancer patients, the pain described in this scenario is more likely to be acute and related to tissue damage from radiation therapy rather than neuropathy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Halitosis: Halitosis refers to bad breath, which may or may not be related to bruxism. While teeth grinding can contribute to dental issues that may lead to halitosis, it is not the primary disorder associated with teeth grinding.
B) Sordes: Sordes refers to the accumulation of foul-smelling crusts or deposits around the teeth and gums, typically seen in individuals with poor oral hygiene or compromised oral health. It is not directly related to teeth grinding.
C) Bruxism: Bruxism refers to the habit of grinding or clenching the teeth, especially during sleep. It can lead to dental problems, jaw pain, headaches, and other issues related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Referring the client to a dentist for evaluation and management of bruxism is appropriate to address the underlying dental concerns associated with teeth grinding.
D) Xerostomia: Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, is a condition characterized by reduced saliva production. While xerostomia may exacerbate dental problems and contribute to oral discomfort, it is not specifically associated with teeth grinding.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"E","dropdown-group-2":"C"}
Explanation
Potassium Levels: The postoperative potassium level for the client is 3.0 mEq/L, which falls below the normal range of 3.5 to 5 mEq/L. Potassium is a critical electrolyte necessary for the proper functioning of cardiac muscles. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining the electrical conductivity of the heart. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can disrupt this electrical conductivity, leading to abnormal heart rhythms or arrhythmias. Arrhythmias can manifest as palpitations, irregular heartbeats, or more severe cardiac events, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
Importance of Potassium in Cardiac Function: Potassium is essential for the repolarization phase of the cardiac action potential. It helps in the return of the cell to its resting state after each heartbeat. A deficiency in potassium disrupts this balance, increasing the risk of erratic heartbeats and arrhythmias. Low potassium can prolong the QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which is a marker for potential arrhythmic events.
Clinical Implications: For a postoperative client, maintaining electrolyte balance is crucial. Surgery and anesthesia can affect fluid and electrolyte levels, making it essential to monitor and correct any imbalances. The decrease in potassium levels from 3.5 mEq/L preoperatively to 3.0 mEq/L postoperatively highlights a trend that must be addressed to prevent complications such as arrhythmias.
Preventative Measures: To mitigate the risk of arrhythmias, the healthcare team should consider interventions to correct the hypokalemia. This may include administering potassium supplements orally or intravenously, depending on the severity and clinical context. Continuous cardiac monitoring may also be warranted to detect and manage any emerging arrhythmic events promptly.
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