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 C
Explanation
Choice C Hemoglobin 8.6 g/dL indicates the nurse should notify the provider because it is below the normal range of 12 to 18 g/dL and suggests blood loss or anemia, which can impair oxygen delivery to tissues and affect wound healing.
Choice a is not correct because blood glucose 98 mg/dL does not indicate the nurse should notify the provider because it is within the normal range of 70 to 110 mg/dL and does not indicate hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia, which can affect recovery.
Choice b is not correct because BUN 18 mg/dL does not indicate the nurse should notify the provider because it is within the normal range of 10 to 20 mg/dL and does not indicate renal impairment or dehydration, which can affect fluid and electrolyte balance.
Choice d is not correct because potassium 3.5 mEq/L does not indicate the nurse should notify the provider because it is within the normal range of 3.5 to 5 mEq/L and does not indicate hypokalemia or hyperkalemia, which can affect cardiac function and muscle contraction.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect because pallor is not a sign of anaphylaxis. Pallor can indicate shock, anemia, or hypoxia.
Choice B: This is incorrect because peripheral edema is not a sign of anaphylaxis. Peripheral edema can indicate heart failure, kidney disease, or venous insufficiency.
Choice C: This is incorrect because hypertension is not a sign of anaphylaxis. Hypertension can indicate stress, pain, or renal disease.
Choice D: This is correct because pruritus is a sign of anaphylaxis. Pruritus is a severe itching sensation that can accompany hives, rash, or angioedema.
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