A nurse is caring for a patient who reports experiencing an alteration in sense of smell following surgery for a total laryngectomy.
The nurse should address the patient’s concern through which of the following responses?
“As your appetite returns, your sense of smell will also return.”.
“Your body will slowly develop an ability to smell through your stoma.”.
“Your sense of smell will gradually return after several months.”.
“Breathing through a stoma has altered your sense of smell.”.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While it’s true that appetite and sense of smell are closely linked, the return of appetite does not necessarily mean the return of the sense of smell, especially after a total laryngectomy.
Choice B rationale
The body does not develop an ability to smell through the stoma. The sense of smell is primarily mediated by the olfactory nerve (Cranial Nerve I), which is located in the upper part of the nasal cavity.
Choice C rationale
The sense of smell does not typically return after several months following a total laryngectomy. This is because the surgery involves removal of the larynx and separation of the airway from the mouth, nose and throat.
Choice D rationale
Breathing through a stoma after a total laryngectomy does alter the sense of smell. This is because the nose and mouth are bypassed during breathing, and these are the primary routes for smell.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Muffled heart sounds are not a typical sign of pneumothorax. They are more commonly associated with conditions such as pericardial effusion or cardiac tamponade.
Choice B rationale
Sudden hemoptysis, or coughing up blood, is not a typical sign of pneumothorax. It is more commonly associated with conditions such as pulmonary embolism or lung cancer.
Choice C rationale
Absent breath sounds on the affected side is a typical sign of pneumothorax. When air enters the pleural space and causes the lung to collapse, breath sounds may be absent or significantly decreased on the affected side.
Choice D rationale
A declining respiratory rate is not a typical sign of pneumothorax. In fact, a rapid respiratory rate (tachypnea) is more commonly observed in pneumothorax due to the body’s attempt to compensate for the decreased lung capacity.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
This response is more threatening than assertive. Threatening disciplinary action does not address the issue in a constructive manner and may create further conflict.
Choice B rationale
This response is more accusatory than assertive. It may make the colleague defensive and does not encourage open communication.
Choice C rationale
This response is more avoidant than assertive. It does not address the issue directly with the colleague and does not promote effective teamwork.
Choice D rationale
This response is assertive. It communicates the nurse’s feelings and needs clearly and respectfully, without blaming or threatening the colleague. It promotes open communication and effective teamwork.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.