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: This is correct. Phototherapy is a treatment option for psoriasis that involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light, which can reduce inflammation and slow down the growth of skin cells.
Choice B: This is incorrect. Oil-based ointment is not recommended for psoriasis, as it can clog the pores and worsen the condition.
Choice C: This is incorrect. Dermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure that involves removing the outer layer of skin with a rotating device, which can cause bleeding, infection, and scarring.
Choice D: This is incorrect. Benzoyl peroxide is an acne medication that can dry out and irritate the skin, which can aggravate psoriasis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice c: Confusion is a finding that the nurse should anticipate in an older adult client who has cystitis, which is inflammation of the bladder caused by a bacterial infection. Confusion can be a sign of sepsis or delirium, which are common complications of urinary tract infections in older adults.
Choice a is not correct because hypothermia is not a finding that the nurse should anticipate in an older adult client who has cystitis. Hypothermia can occur in older adults due to impaired thermoregulation, but it is not related to cystitis.
Choice b is not correct because referred pain in the right shoulder is not a finding that the nurse should anticipate in an older adult client who has cystitis. Referred pain in the right shoulder can indicate gallbladder disease, but it is not related to cystitis.
Choice d is not correct because orange-colored urine is not a finding that the nurse should anticipate in an older adult client who has cystitis. Orange-colored urine can be caused by certain medications, foods, or dehydration, but it is not related to cystitis.
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