A nurse is caring for a client who underwent an appendectomy 2 days ago and now reports sudden, unbearable pain in the left great toe. The client has a medical history of type 2 diabetes mellitus, gouty arthritis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Which instruction should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
Eat high-protein foods to achieve ideal body weight.
Avoid acetylsalicylic acid-containing medications.
Wrap joints with an elastic bandage when swollen.
Support joints in an extended position while resting.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Eating high-protein foods to achieve ideal body weight is generally a healthy practice, but it is not directly related to the management of the client's current condition involving pain in the toe.
Choice B reason: Patients with gouty arthritis should avoid acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) as it can lead to an increase in uric acid levels, potentially exacerbating gout attacks. Instead, medications that do not affect uric acid levels should be used for pain relief.
Choice C reason: Wrapping joints with an elastic bandage can provide support and reduce swelling, but it is not the primary intervention for sudden pain in the toe following an appendectomy, especially when the patient has a history of gouty arthritis.
Choice D reason: Supporting joints in an extended position while resting can provide comfort and may prevent stiffness, but it does not address the acute management of gouty arthritis or diabetic complications that could be causing toe pain.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Application of heat and cold therapy can help manage symptoms but does not encompass the broader aspects of health promotion and teaching.
Choice B reason: Avoidance of foods containing purine is more specific to conditions like gout rather than rheumatoid arthritis, and while diet is important, it does not fully represent health promotion and teaching.
Choice C reason: Immobilization of affected joints is not a health promotion strategy and can actually worsen symptoms over time. Active and passive range-of-motion exercises are recommended instead.
Choice D reason: Prevention through nutrition and exercise is the most comprehensive approach that aligns with health promotion and teaching for clients with rheumatoid arthritis. It includes educating clients on a balanced diet and physical activity to manage symptoms and improve overall health.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fat emboli are typically associated with long bone fractures and not commonly linked with dehydration or immobility.
Choice B reason: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common condition in immobile patients, and redness and swelling in the calf are classic signs.
Choice C reason: While infection can cause redness and swelling, it is usually accompanied by other signs such as fever, which is not mentioned here.
Choice D reason: Pulmonary embolism is a complication that can arise from DVT but would not be the direct cause of calf redness and swelling.
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