A nurse is caring for a client who has prostate cancer and has undergone a prostatectomy. Which of the following should the nurse understand as a potential complication of prostate surgery?
Testicular torsion
Erectile dysfunction
Cystitis
Paralytic ileus
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Testicular torsion is a condition where the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. It is not a typical complication following a prostatectomy. Testicular torsion is generally an acute condition that affects younger males and is unrelated to prostate surgery.
Choice B reason:
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complication after prostatectomy. The surgery can damage the nerves and blood vessels that control erections, leading to ED. While nerve-sparing techniques aim to reduce this risk, some degree of erectile dysfunction is still possible after the procedure.
Choice C reason:
Cystitis, which is inflammation of the bladder, can occur after a prostatectomy due to the use of a catheter or as a result of the surgery itself. However, it is not as common or as significant a long-term complication as erectile dysfunction.
Choice D reason:
Paralytic ileus, a temporary cessation of bowel movements, can occur after any abdominal surgery due to the manipulation of the intestines or as a side effect of anesthesia. While it can be a complication of prostatectomy, it is typically resolved within a few days to weeks after surgery.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is the most common type of antibody found in blood circulation and is involved in the body's immune response to fight infections. However, IgG is not typically associated with allergic reactions, which are immediate hypersensitivity reactions.
Choice B reason:
Immunoglobulin A (IgA) plays a critical role in mucosal immunity and is found in high concentrations in the mucous membranes, particularly those lining the respiratory passages and gastrointestinal tract. Like IgG, IgA is not primarily responsible for the allergic response seen in conditions such as seasonal allergies.
Choice C reason:
Immunoglobulin M (IgM) is usually the first antibody produced by the immune system when it detects an infection. IgM antibodies are larger and are involved in the primary immune response but are not the antibodies that mediate typical allergic reactions.
Choice D reason:
Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is the antibody that plays a central role in the pathophysiology of allergic diseases, including seasonal allergies. IgE antibodies are produced as a response to allergens and are responsible for the symptoms of an allergic reaction. An elevation in IgE levels typically indicates a positive result for an allergy test such as RAST.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Asking about dietary changes is relevant to a skin assessment, as diet can influence skin health. However, this question does not require intervention unless the dietary changes are directly related to the skin condition. If the client has been advised to follow a specific diet for their skin condition, then the nurse should ensure compliance with that diet.
Choice B reason:
This question shifts the focus from the skin condition’s characteristics and impact to general coping mechanisms. It does not help determine the lesion’s symptoms, triggers, or functional effects, and thus does not align with a targeted skin assessment framework, requiring intervention.
Choice C reason:
Exploring how the skin issue affects the client’s feelings reveals psychosocial stressors and the emotional burden of living with a visible condition. This insight supports holistic care planning, adherence strategies, and therapeutic rapport.
Choice D reason:
Sleep disturbances can be a consequence of skin conditions, especially if they involve itching or pain. This question is pertinent to the assessment and does not require intervention. The information gathered can help in formulating a comprehensive care plan that addresses the client's comfort and sleep quality.
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