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 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.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Having a bologna sandwich is not a good choice for a client who has hypertension, as bologna is a processed meat that contains high amounts of sodium and saturated fat, which can raise blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Choice B reason: Seasoning food with vinegar is a good choice for a client who has hypertension, as vinegar is a low-sodium condiment that can add flavor and acidity to food without increasing blood pressure.
Choice C reason: Seasoning food with ketchup is not a good choice for a client who has hypertension, as ketchup is a high-sodium condiment that can increase blood pressure and fluid retention.
Choice D reason: Having canned soup is not a good choice for a client who has hypertension, as canned soup is a high-sodium food that can increase blood pressure and fluid retention. The client should choose low-sodium or homemade soup instead.
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