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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice D: Comparing the reading to the preoperative value is the first action that the nurse should take because it can help determine if the client's blood pressure is normal for them or if it indicates hypotension, which can be a sign of hemorrhage, shock, or infection.
Choice a is not correct because covering the client with a warm blanket is not the first action that the nurse should take, but rather an intervention that can help prevent hypothermia and shivering, which can increase oxygen demand and blood loss.
Choice b is not correct because increasing the IV fluid rate is not the first action that the nurse should take, but rather an intervention that can help restore fluid volume and blood pressure, if indicated by other data and prescribed by the provider.
Choice c is not correct because reassuring the client is not the first action that the nurse should take, but rather an intervention that can help reduce anxiety and stress, which can affect blood pressure and heart rate.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: This is correct because aligning the client's joints with the joints on the frame can ensure proper functioning and comfort of the CPM device. The nurse should adjust the length and width of the device to fit the client's leg and secure it with straps.
Choice B: This is incorrect because padding the CPM device with a thick pillow can interfere with its movement and cause pressure on the leg. The nurse should use only thin padding or no padding at all for the CPM device.
Choice C: This is incorrect because placing the client in high-Fowler's position can cause flexion contractures and impair circulation in the leg. The nurse should place the client in supine or semi-Fowler's position with the leg elevated on pillows.
Choice D: This is incorrect because setting the degree of flexion and extension as tolerated by client can cause excessive pain and damage to the joint. The nurse should set the degree of flexion and extension according to the provider's prescription and gradually increase it as ordered.
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