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 because placing electrical cords against the wall can prevent tripping and falling, which can cause injury or dislocation of the hip prosthesis. The nurse should instruct the client to remove any clutter or obstacles from the floor and use assistive devices such as a walker or cane.
Choice B: This is incorrect because placing a throw rug next to the bathtub can increase the risk of slipping and falling, especially when the floor is wet. The nurse should instruct the client to avoid using throw rugs or mats and install grab bars and non-skid mats in the bathroom.
Choice C: This is incorrect because keeping pot handles turned toward the edge of the stove can cause burns or spills, which can also lead to falls or infections. The nurse should instruct the client to turn pot handles inward or use the back burners of the stove.
Choice D: This is incorrect because storing extra blankets in a box on the steps can obstruct the access to the stairs and pose a hazard for falling. The nurse should instruct the client to store extra blankets in a closet or drawer and use handrails when using the stairs.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect because placing the client in the Sims' position is not necessary for a colposcopy. The nurse should place the client in the lithotomy position, which allows better visualization of the cervix and vagina.
Choice B: This is incorrect because inserting a tampon following the procedure can interfere with healing and increase the risk of infection. The nurse should instruct the client to avoid using tampons, douches, or vaginal creams for at least a week after the procedure.
Choice C: This is correct because instructing the client to avoid sexual intercourse until the cervix is healed can prevent bleeding, infection, and trauma to the cervix. The nurse should advise the client to abstain from sexual activity for at least a week or until advised by the provider.
Choice D: This is incorrect because reinforcing teaching that the procedure involves dilation of the cervix can cause anxiety and discomfort for the client. The nurse should explain that the procedure does not require dilation of the cervix, but rather involves applying a speculum and using a microscope to examine the cervix and take tissue samples if needed.
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