A nurse is providing care for a client who has esophageal cancer and has received radiation therapy.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Dysphagia.
Xerostomia.
Excoriation of the skin on the neck and chest.
Client reports a pain level of 6 on a scale from 0 to 10.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) is a common complication of esophageal cancer and can lead to malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia. It is the priority finding because addressing the client's ability to swallow is essential for maintaining adequate nutrition and preventing complications.
Choice B rationale:
Xerostomia (dry mouth) is another common side effect of radiation therapy, but while uncomfortable, it does not pose an immediate risk to the client's health compared to dysphagia.
Choice C rationale:
Excoriation of the skin on the neck and chest is likely due to the radiation therapy and can be managed with appropriate skin care measures. Although important, it is not the priority compared to dysphagia.
Choice D rationale:
The client's self-reported pain level of 6 on a scale from 0 to 10 is concerning and requires attention, but addressing dysphagia takes precedence due to its potential impact on the client's nutritional status and overall well-being.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice D.
Choice A rationale: Acupuncture is typically administered by a trained acupuncturist, not by the nurse. It is not commonly initiated upon arrival at the labor unit.
Choice B rationale: Biofeedback is a technique that usually requires prior training and practice; it is not typically taught for the first time at the beginning of labor.
Choice C rationale: Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can help manage back pain during labor but is not specifically used for pelvic pressure.
Choice D rationale: Using an ultrasound picture as a focal point during contractions is a common nonpharmacological pain management technique. Focal points help the client concentrate and manage pain through visualization and distraction.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer isChoice C.
Choice A rationale:
Encouraging the client to drink low-protein supplements is not the best action. Protein is essential for tissue repair and healing, especially when the body is under stress, such as during radiation therapy. Therefore, it would be more beneficial to encourage high-protein foods and supplements.
Choice B rationale:
Serving the client’s largest meal in the evening is not the most effective strategy. Radiation therapy can cause nausea and vomiting, which are often worse later in the day. Therefore, it might be more beneficial to serve a larger meal earlier in the day when the client is more likely to tolerate it.
Choice C rationale:
Providing the client with cold foods rather than hot foods is the correct action. Hot foods can often exacerbate feelings of nausea, which are common side effects of radiation therapy.Cold foods are generally better tolerated.
Choice D rationale:
Telling the client to drink two glasses of water with meals is not the best advice. While hydration is important, drinking large amounts of fluid with meals can contribute to early satiety, which can further decrease the client’s food intake. It might be more beneficial to encourage the client to drink fluids between meals.
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