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 ["A","C"]
Explanation
The correct answers are Choices A and C.
Choice A rationale: Severe hypertension in pregnancy disrupts placental perfusion and vascular integrity, increasing risk of placental abruption due to premature separation and hemorrhage, threatening both maternal and fetal outcomes.
Choice B rationale: Cervical insufficiency is linked to structural weakness or trauma, not hypertension; it typically presents with painless dilation and is unrelated to elevated blood pressure or vascular compromise.
Choice C rationale: Hypertensive encephalopathy and preeclampsia can progress to eclampsia, marked by seizures. Elevated BP increases cerebral edema and excitability, triggering convulsions if unmanaged.
Choice D rationale: Hypoglycemia is not a direct consequence of hypertension; it’s more associated with insulin dysregulation, poor intake, or medication effects, not elevated blood pressure.
Choice E rationale: Heart failure may occur in chronic hypertension but is less acute than seizure or abruption risk in this context. No signs of fluid overload or cardiac decompensation are present in the vitals.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Wearing clothing with zippers instead of buttons does not address the safety concerns related to Alzheimer's disease. This choice does not ensure the client's safety or prevent wandering, which are common issues in Alzheimer's patients.
Choice B rationale:
Placing locks at the tops of exterior doors is essential for the safety of clients with Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's patients often have a tendency to wander and may become disoriented, putting them at risk of getting lost or injured outside the home. Proper locks can prevent them from leaving the house unsupervised.
Choice C rationale:
Replacing the carpet with hardwood floors may reduce the risk of falls but does not specifically address the safety concerns related to Alzheimer's disease. It is important to focus on measures that prevent wandering and ensure the client's safety in various situations.
Choice D rationale:
Encouraging physical activity prior to bedtime is a good practice for promoting sleep in older adults but does not directly address the safety concerns of Alzheimer's patients. Safety measures, such as securing doors, supervising the client, and preventing wandering, are more crucial in this context.
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