A nurse is caring for a client who has diabetic neuropathy of the lower extremities and has a new prescription for a heating pad. The prescription reads, "Apply to the left foot for 20 min." Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Contact the provider to clarify the prescription.
Complete a Semmes Weinstein monofilament test before applying the heating pad.
Observe the skin 10 min after the start of treatment.
Apply the heating pad as prescribed by the provider.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: The nurse should contact the provider to clarify the prescription because applying heat to an area with impaired sensation can cause burns or tissue damage. The nurse should also educate the client about the risks of using heat therapy and alternative methods to relieve pain.
Choice B reason: The Semmes Weinstein monofilament test is used to assess the sensation of light touch in clients with peripheral neuropathy. The nurse should perform this test before applying any intervention that could affect the skin integrity, such as heat, cold, or compression.
Choice C reason: Observing the skin 10 min after the start of treatment is not sufficient to prevent complications from heat therapy. The nurse should monitor the skin continuously and check for signs of redness, blisters, or burns.
Choice D reason: Applying the heating pad as prescribed by the provider is not appropriate for a client with diabetic neuropathy of the lower extremities. Heat can increase blood flow and inflammation in the affected area, which can worsen the condition and increase the risk of infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Urinating before and after sexual intercourse can help flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract during sexual activity, and prevent them from causing an infection.
Choice B reason: Increasing milk consumption to make the urine more alkaline is not a recommended instruction, as it may increase the risk of developing kidney stones or calcium deposits in the urinary tract.
Choice C reason: Emptying the bladder at least every 4 hours is a good practice, but not sufficient to prevent urinary tract infections. The nurse should also advise the client to drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to dilute the urine and flush out bacteria.
Choice D reason: Using vaginal douche once a week is not a recommended instruction, as it may alter the normal flora of the vagina and increase the risk of infection. The nurse should advise the client to avoid using any products that may irritate the genital area, such as perfumed soaps, sprays, or powders.
Choice E reason: Drinking cranberry juice daily is not a proven method to prevent urinary tract infections, although some studies suggest that it may have some benefits. The nurse should inform the client that cranberry juice may interact with some medications, such as warfarin, and that it may also increase the acidity of the urine, which can cause discomfort or burning sensation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Oxybutynin is an anticholinergic drug that relaxes the muscles of the bladder and reduces spasms, urgency, and frequency of urination. It is used to treat overactive bladder and urinary incontinence.
Choice B reason: Oxybutynin does not increase tissue perfusion in the lungs, as it has no effect on the respiratory system. It can actually cause dry mouth, nasal congestion, and blurred vision as side effects.
Choice C reason: Oxybutynin does not increase venous return to the heart, as it has no effect on the cardiovascular system. It can actually cause tachycardia, palpitations, and hypertension as side effects.
Choice D reason: Oxybutynin does not relax the muscles of the colon, as it has no effect on the gastrointestinal system. It can actually cause constipation, nausea, and abdominal pain as side effects.
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