A nurse is educating a newly licensed nurse about pain. Which of the following is an example of acute pain?

Choice A rationale

Anhidrosis, or the inability to sweat normally, is a potential side effect of anticholinergic agents. These medications block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that stimulates sweat glands among other functions. If a patient taking an anticholinergic agent for Parkinson’s disease experiences anhidrosis, they should report it to their healthcare provider as it can lead to overheating and heat stroke.
Choice B rationale
Tremors are a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease, and anticholinergic medications are often used to help control them. Therefore, while tremors should be monitored, they are not typically a side effect that needs to be reported unless they worsen or become unmanageable.
Choice C rationale
Drooling can be a symptom of Parkinson’s disease, but it is not typically a side effect of anticholinergic medications. In fact, these medications can sometimes cause dry mouth.
Choice D rationale
Rigidity, like tremors, is a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease. Anticholinergic medications can help manage rigidity, so it is not typically a side effect that needs to be reported unless it worsens.

Choice A rationale
This statement is incorrect. Nerves do not “go to sleep.”. Peripheral neuropathy in diabetes is caused by damage to the nerves as a result of high blood sugar levels over time.
Choice B rationale
This statement is incorrect. While nerve damage can occur due to various reasons, in the context of diabetes, it is primarily due to prolonged high blood sugar levels.
Choice C rationale
This statement is incorrect. Age and blood flow to the feet are not the primary causes of peripheral neuropathy in diabetes. The primary cause is prolonged high blood sugar levels.
Choice D rationale
This statement is correct. Prolonged high blood sugar levels in diabetes can cause damage to the peripheral nerves, leading to peripheral neuropathy.