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 D
Explanation
ESR is a laboratory test that measures the rate at which red blood cells settle in a vertical tube of blood over a specific period of time. An elevated ESR is a nonspecific indicator of inflammation in the body, including infections. In the presence of an infection, the body releases certain substances that can increase the rate at which red blood cells settle, leading to an elevated ESR.
Decreased platelet count is not typically associated with infection. Low platelet count, known as thrombocytopenia, can be caused by various factors such as certain medications, autoimmune disorders, or bone marrow disorders. Infection may cause other changes in blood counts, but decreased platelets are not a direct indicator of infection.
Decreased hemoglobin levels, known as anemia, can be caused by various factors such as nutritional deficiencies, chronic diseases, or blood loss. While some infections can lead to anemia indirectly, decreased hemoglobin is not a specific indicator of infection.
Increased iron levels, known as hyperferritinemia, can occur in various conditions, including infections, but it is not a direct indicator of infection. It is important to assess the overall clinical picture and other laboratory findings to determine the cause of increased iron levels.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
When instructing a client on self-administration of nasal drops, the nurse should recommend the supine position. In the supine position, the client lies on their back with the head slightly elevated. This position allows for easy access to the nostrils and facilitates the proper instillation of the nasal drops.
The other options are not recommended for instillation of nasal drops for various reasons:
a) Sims position: Simsposition is a side-lying position with the upper leg flexed. This position is often used for rectal examinations or procedures and is not suitable for instilling nasal drops.
b) Prone position: Prone position refers to lying face down. It is not ideal for administering nasal drops as it
can obstruct proper access to the nostrils and make it difficult to instill the drops accurately.
d) Orthopneic position: Orthopneic position is a sitting position with the upper body supported by pillows. It is commonly used by individuals with respiratory distress to facilitate breathing. However, it is not specifically recommended for administering nasal drops as it may not provide optimal access to the nostrils for proper instillation.
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