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: Taking ibuprofen or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause a false-positive result on a fecal occult blood screening test, as they can irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa and cause bleeding.
Choice B reason: Having a hemorrhoidectomy 1 year ago is unlikely to cause a false-positive result on a fecal occult blood screening test, as hemorrhoids are usually a source of bright red blood that can be seen with naked eye, not occult blood that requires chemical detection.
Choice C reason: Having a history of breast cancer is not related to a false-positive result on a fecal occult blood screening test, as breast cancer does not affect the gastrointestinal tract or cause bleeding in stool.
Choice D reason: Consuming citrus juice 3 days before the test is not likely to cause a false-positive result on a fecal occult blood screening test, as citrus juice does not contain any substances that can interfere with the chemical reaction of the test. However, consuming red meat, raw vegetables, vitamin C supplements, or iron supplements within 3 days before the test can cause false-negative results, as they can mask or degrade occult blood in stool.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect because maintaining the client on bed rest can increase the risk of complications such as pneumonia, thromboembolism, or pressure ulcers. The nurse should encourage early ambulation and frequent position changes to promote healing and prevent complications.
Choice B: This is correct because repositioning the client can help relieve pressure and discomfort from the incision site. The nurse should assist the client to change positions every 2 hours and use pillows or splints to support the incision.
Choice C: This is incorrect because applying a warm, moist compress to the incision area can interfere with wound healing and increase the risk of infection. The nurse should keep the incision site clean and dry and follow the provider's orders for dressing changes.
Choice D: This is incorrect because administering an additional dose of pain medication is not necessary when the client reports a pain level of 2 on a scale of 0 to 10. The nurse should monitor the client's pain level and administer pain medication as prescribed and as needed.
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