A nurse is reinforcing teaching for a client who was admitted with an exacerbation of COPD. Which of the following should the nurse include in the client teaching?
"You should consume small, frequent meals each day."
"You should decrease your caloric intake by 200 calories per day."
"You should increase your oxygen to 5 liters per minute if you have shortness of breath."
"You should discontinue your prednisone when your symptoms improve."
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason;
"You should consume small, frequent meals each day." This statement is advisable for COPD management. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help prevent bloating or feeling overly full, which might interfere with breathing due to increased pressure on the diaphragm.
Choice B Reason:
"You should decrease your caloric intake by 200 calories per day." While maintaining a healthy weight is important for COPD management, reducing caloric intake without specific guidance or assessment might not be suitable. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider or dietitian for individualized dietary recommendations.
Choice C Reason:
"You should increase your oxygen to 5 liters per minute if you have shortness of breath." Adjusting oxygen flow should be done based on a healthcare provider's prescribed guidelines. Self-adjustment of oxygen flow without medical advice can be risky and might not address the underlying cause of shortness of breath during a COPD exacerbation.
Choice D Reason:
"You should discontinue your prednisone when your symptoms improve." Prednisone or other corticosteroids are often prescribed during a COPD exacerbation to reduce inflammation in the airways. However, discontinuing corticosteroids abruptly without a healthcare provider's guidance can lead to a recurrence of symptoms or potential complications. It's important to follow the prescribed regimen and complete the course as directed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, is typically associated with liver dysfunction or conditions affecting the breakdown of red blood cells, not directly linked to Cushing's syndrome. While some liver abnormalities can be seen in Cushing's syndrome due to metabolic changes, jaundice is not a typical manifestation of this condition.
Choice B Reason:
Muscle rigidity is more commonly associated with conditions like Parkinson's disease, dystonia, or certain muscle disorders. In Cushing's syndrome, muscle weakness due to protein breakdown and muscle wasting is a more expected finding rather than muscle rigidity.
Choice C Reason:
Weight loss is incorrect. Weight gain, particularly in the central part of the body (trunk) and face (creating a "moon face"), is a more common characteristic of Cushing's syndrome. The excess cortisol often leads to increased fat deposits, especially in these areas, rather than weight loss.
Cushing's syndrome is characterized by an excess of cortisol in the body, either due to the body producing too much cortisol or from long-term use of corticosteroid medications. Considering this condition, the nurse should expect the following finding:
Choice D Reason:
Easily bruised is correct. Excess cortisol can lead to the thinning of the skin and weakening of blood vessels, making individuals with Cushing's syndrome prone to easy bruising. Other common findings associated with Cushing's syndrome include weight gain (especially in the trunk and face), muscle weakness, high blood pressure, fatigue, and changes in skin such as thinning and purple stretch marks.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
"You will not become fatigued when you use assistive devices. “This statement might provide an unrealistic expectation. While assistive devices can help, they might still require physical effort and could potentially cause fatigue, especially during initial use or extended periods.
Choice B Reason:
"Plan to hire a home care aid to perform all of your ADLs." This statement is not appropriate.
While home care assistance can be beneficial, aiming to have someone perform all ADLs might limit the client's independence and ability to regain skills. The goal is often to support the client in performing ADLs independently whenever possible.
Choice C Reason:
"Install grab bars in your shower to assist with your balance." This statement is true. Installing grab bars in the shower can significantly enhance safety and stability during activities like showering, reducing the risk of falls for someone who might experience balance or mobility challenges following a CVA.
Choice D Reason:
"Place a towel in the shower to prevent slipping." This statement is inappropriate. While placing a towel might offer some traction, it might not provide sufficient stability or support, especially for someone with balance issues post-CVA. Grab bars offer more reliable support to prevent falls in the shower.
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