A nurse is caring for a client who has been taking echinacea as an alternative therapy for treatment. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse the treatment has been effective?
The client's arthritis pain has improved.
The client is sleeping through the night.
The client's leg wound is healing.
The client's blood pressure is 132/56 mm Hg.
None
None
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Echinacea is not typically utilized for its analgesic or anti-inflammatory properties related to musculoskeletal disorders. Arthritis management usually involves supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, or omega-3 fatty acids. Since echinacea focuses on immune modulation rather than joint health, improvement in arthritis pain would not be the expected clinical indicator of its effectiveness.
Choice B reason: Sleep enhancement is not a known therapeutic effect of echinacea. Clients seeking herbal assistance for insomnia or sleep disturbances would more likely use valerian root, melatonin, or chamomile. Because echinacea does not possess sedative or hypnotic properties, a report of sleeping through the night would be unrelated to this specific treatment.
Choice C reason: Echinacea is widely used for its immunostimulant properties, which can aid in wound healing and the prevention of upper respiratory infections. By enhancing phagocytosis and immune function, it supports the body's ability to repair tissue. Therefore, a healing leg wound serves as a positive clinical finding indicating the therapy is effective.
Choice D reason: This blood pressure reading indicates a wide pulse pressure and does not reflect a therapeutic goal of echinacea. Echinacea does not have antihypertensive properties or significant effects on cardiovascular hemodynamics. Monitoring blood pressure is a standard nursing action, but these specific values would not be used to evaluate the efficacy of an herbal immunostimulant.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Wearing gloves when discarding the syringes is not necessary, as long as the syringes are placed in a sharps disposal container immediately after use. Gloves do not prevent needle-stick injuries or infections¹.
Choice B reason: Storing used syringes in a biohazard bag before discarding is not recommended, as biohazard bags are not puncture-resistant and may leak or spill. Biohazard bags are also not accepted by most disposal programs².
Choice C reason: Taking containers of used syringes to the local recycling center is not appropriate, as recycling centers do not accept medical waste. Recycling centers may also expose workers and the environment to potential hazards from the syringes³.
Choice D reason: Discarding the syringes in a metal container is a correct way to dispose of insulin needles, as long as the container is labeled as "Sharps" and has a tight-fitting lid. Metal containers, such as coffee cans or detergent bottles, are strong and durable and can prevent needle-stick injuries. Metal containers can be dropped off at designated collection sites or mailed back to disposal programs.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Understanding the client's living situation is crucial for planning appropriate care post-discharge. The environment must accommodate the special bed and provide a safe space for recovery.
Choice B reason: While applying moisture barrier ointment is important for skin protection, it is not the first action to take when planning discharge. The immediate environment must first be assessed for suitability.
Choice C reason: Assistance with the cost of supplies is valuable, but it is secondary to ensuring the client's living conditions are conducive to recovery and proper care.
Choice D reason: Nutrition is essential for healing, but the initial focus should be on the client's living arrangements to ensure they support the required care and equipment.
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