A nurse is initiating the plan of care for a client who has anorexia nervosa.
Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options.
The nurse should first address the client’s
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"C","dropdown-group-2":"A"}
The nurse should first address the client’s heart rate followed by the client’s skin turgor.
Target 1: Heart Rate
Reason: The client’s heart rate is 44/min, which is significantly below the normal range of 60-100 beats per minute for adults. This condition, known as bradycardia, can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Bradycardia in anorexia nervosa patients is often due to malnutrition and electrolyte imbalances, which can lead to cardiac complications. Addressing the heart rate is crucial to stabilize the client’s cardiovascular system and prevent potential cardiac arrest.
Target 2: Skin Turgor
Reason: Skin turgor is an important indicator of hydration status. The client has decreased skin turgor, suggesting dehydration. Dehydration can exacerbate other medical conditions and lead to severe complications if not treated promptly. By addressing skin turgor, the nurse can help restore the client’s fluid balance, which is essential for overall health and recovery.
Choice A: Body Image
Reason: While body image is a significant psychological aspect of anorexia nervosa, it is not the immediate priority in this scenario. Addressing body image issues is crucial for long-term recovery and preventing relapse, but it does not pose an immediate threat to the client’s physical health. Psychological interventions can be initiated once the client’s critical physical health issues are stabilized.
Choice B: Lanugo
Reason: Lanugo, the fine hair that develops on the body, is a sign of severe malnutrition and the body’s attempt to conserve heat. While it indicates the chronic nature of the client’s condition, it is not an immediate threat to life. Addressing lanugo involves improving the client’s nutritional status over time, which will naturally resolve as the client’s health improves.
Choice C: Heart Rate
Reason: As previously mentioned, the client’s heart rate is critically low and poses an immediate risk to their life. Bradycardia must be addressed first to stabilize the client’s cardiovascular function and prevent life-threatening complications.
Choice D: Skin Turgor
Reason: Decreased skin turgor indicates dehydration, which can lead to severe complications if not corrected. Rehydration is essential for the client’s recovery and overall health, making it a priority after stabilizing the heart rate.
Choice E: Russell’s Sign
Reason: Russell’s sign, characterized by calluses on the knuckles from self-induced vomiting, is a physical indicator of the client’s purging behavior. While it is important to address the underlying behaviors associated with Russell’s sign, it is not an immediate threat to the client’s physical health. Behavioral interventions can be implemented once the client’s critical physical health issues are managed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Telling a client that they cannot refuse treatment because they were admitted involuntarily is incorrect. Even if a client is admitted involuntarily, they still have the right to refuse treatment unless they are deemed incompetent or a danger to themselves or others. It is essential to respect the client's autonomy and rights.
Choice B reason:
While it may be true that the client could feel better after ECT, this statement dismisses the client's current concerns and does not acknowledge their right to refuse treatment. It is important to address the client's feelings and provide support rather than making promises about the outcome.
Choice C reason:
This is the correct response because it respects the client's decision and autonomy. It also involves the provider, who can discuss the decision with the client, provide more information, or explore other options. It is a nurse's responsibility to communicate the client's decisions to the provider.
Choice D reason:
Administering medication to help the client relax without addressing their concerns about the treatment is not appropriate. It does not respect the client's right to refuse treatment and could be considered coercive.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Excessive sleep or a significant change in sleep patterns can be an indicator of a relapse in schizophrenia. Schizophrenia can disrupt the regular sleep-wake cycle, leading to either insomnia or hypersomnia (excessive sleep). When a client with schizophrenia begins sleeping more than usual, it may suggest a worsening of symptoms or an impending relapse. It's essential for the nurse to include this information in the discharge teaching so that the family can monitor and seek help if the client's sleep patterns change significantly.
Choice B reason:
An inability to concentrate is another potential sign of a relapse in schizophrenia. Cognitive difficulties, including problems with concentration, are common in schizophrenia and can worsen during a relapse. This symptom can affect the client's ability to function daily and adhere to treatment plans. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to educate the family about this sign so they can recognize it early and consult with healthcare providers.
Choice C reason:
Exhibiting an inflated sense of self is not typically associated with schizophrenia relapse. While some individuals with schizophrenia might experience grandiose delusions, an inflated sense of self is not a common or specific sign of relapse. The family should be aware of more characteristic symptoms such as changes in sleep, concentration, mood, or behavior.
Choice D reason:
Increasing participation in social activities is generally not a sign of relapse in schizophrenia; in fact, it is often encouraged as part of the recovery process. Social withdrawal, rather than increased participation, would be more concerning and could indicate a relapse. It's important for families to support the client's social engagement as it can be beneficial for their overall well-being.

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