A nurse is caring for an older adult client who is postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty. The nurse is preparing to change the client's surgical dressing. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to demonstrate sensitivity to age-related changes?
Ask the client to help with the dressing change
Wait for the client to approach the nurse for assistance
Use paper tape for securing the new dressing
Apply the dressing loosely over the incision
The Correct Answer is D
d. Apply the dressing loosely over the incision.
Explanation:
The correct answer is d. Apply the dressing loosely over the incision.
When caring for an older adult client, it is important for the nurse to be sensitive to age-related changes and promote their comfort and well-being. Applying the dressing loosely over the incision allows for beter circulation and ventilation, which can help prevent complications such as skin breakdown and infection.
Option a is not the correct answer. Asking the client to help with the dressing change may not be appropriate, as postoperative clients, especially older adults, may have limited mobility or dexterity. It is the nurse's responsibility to provide the necessary care and support during the dressing change.
Option b is not the correct answer. Waiting for the client to approach the nurse for assistance may lead to delays in care and could potentially compromise the client's healing process. The nurse should proactively assess the client's needs and provide appropriate care.
Option c is not the correct answer. Using paper tape for securing the new dressing does not specifically address sensitivity to age-related changes. While paper tape may be gentle on the skin, it is not the primary consideration in this situation.
By applying the dressing loosely over the incision, the nurse demonstrates sensitivity to age-related changes and promotes the client's comfort and optimal healing. This approach takes into account the potential for decreased skin elasticity and fragility in older adults, allowing for proper circulation and reducing the risk of complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Answer: C. Weigh the client each morning after voiding
Rationale:
A. Encourage the client to gain 2.3 kg (5 lb) per week:
A weight gain goal of 0.5 to 1 kg (1 to 2 lb) per week is considered safe and realistic. Gaining 2.3 kg (5 lb) weekly is too aggressive and may cause physical and psychological stress for the client.
B. Monitor the client for 15 min after meals:
Clients with anorexia nervosa are at risk for purging behaviors. Monitoring for only 15 minutes is insufficient. A 60-minute post-meal observation period is more appropriate to deter vomiting or excessive exercise.
C. Weigh the client each morning after voiding:
Daily weights, taken at the same time each morning after voiding and before eating, provide consistent and accurate data to monitor progress and detect manipulation or fluid shifts.
D. Reinforce teaching about healthy eating during meals:
Reinforcing education during meals can increase the client’s anxiety and resistance to eating. Teaching is best done separately from mealtimes to avoid associating eating with stress.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a ."I will take a stool softener to prevent constipation."
Explanation:
The statement that indicates an understanding of the instructions is "I will take a stool softener to prevent constipation."
Explanation for the other options:
b. "I will ask to work the night shift, so I will not be driving in bright sunlight."
This statement is incorrect. The need to work the night shift to avoid bright sunlight does not relate to the discharge instructions for a client postoperative following laser surgery for open-angle glaucoma. The primary focus of discharge teaching for this condition would be related to eye care, medication administration, and follow-up appointments.
c. "I will need to use my eye drops for 1 year."
This statement is incorrect. While eye drops are commonly prescribed for open-angle glaucoma, the duration of their use can vary based on the individual's condition and the healthcare provider's instructions. The client should follow the specific instructions given by their healthcare provider regarding the frequency and duration of eye drop use.
d. "I will need to follow a low-protein diet."
This statement is incorrect. A low-protein diet is not typically part of the discharge instructions for a client postoperative following laser surgery for open-angle glaucoma. The focus of dietary recommendations for open-angle glaucoma is on maintaining a healthy diet and managing other health conditions that may affect intraocular pressure, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
In summary, the statement that demonstrates an understanding of the discharge instructions for a client postoperative following laser surgery for open-angle glaucoma is "I will take a stool softener to prevent constipation." This indicates the client's awareness of the importance of preventing constipation, which can be a side effect of some medications prescribed after surgery.
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