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 B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Providing the client with small-handled adaptive utensils is not necessary for a visually impaired client. The client may prefer to use their own utensils or regular ones that they are familiar with.
Choice B reason: Describing the food placement as though the plate were a clock is a helpful technique to orient the client to their meal and avoid spills or accidents. The nurse should also ask the client about their preferences and needs before serving the food.
Choice C reason: Discouraging conversations during the client's mealtime is not appropriate for a visually impaired client. The nurse should encourage social interactions and respect the client's dignity and autonomy.
Choice D reason: Arranging for an assistive personnel to feed the client is not indicated for a visually impaired client. The nurse should promote the client's independence and self-care abilities as much as possible.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Nonpalpable area of redness, less than 5 mm (0.2 in) in diameter is a negative result for the tuberculin skin test, which means that the client does not have tuberculosis infection or exposure.
Choice B reason: Palpable area of induration, greater than 10 mm (0.4 in) in diameter is a positive result for the tuberculin skin test, which means that the client has tuberculosis infection or exposure and needs further testing, such as chest x-ray or sputum culture, to confirm the diagnosis and rule out active disease.
Choice C reason: Area of ecchymosis, greater than 12 mm (0.5 in) in diameter is not a relevant finding for the tuberculin skin test, as it indicates bruising or bleeding under the skin that may be caused by trauma or coagulation disorder.
Choice D reason: Tenderness at the injection site is not a relevant finding for the tuberculin skin test, as it indicates inflammation or irritation of the skin that may be caused by needle insertion or allergic reaction.
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