A patient, age 23, underwent a rhinoplasty 6 hours ago. After administering his pain medication, the nurse notes that he is swallowing frequently. What is the most likely cause of the swallowing?
Bleeding posterior to the nasal packing.
Oral dryness caused by nasal packing.
An adverse reaction to the analgesic.
A normal response to the analgesic and surgery.
The Correct Answer is B
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure performed on the nose, and it often involves the placement of nasal packing to control bleeding, support the nasal structures, and promote healing. Nasal packing can cause mouth breathing and oral dryness, which can lead to increased swallowing as the patient tries to alleviate the discomfort.
While bleeding posterior to the nasal packing is a potential complication of rhinoplasty, it typically presents with other symptoms such as active bleeding, nasal discharge, or changes in vital signs. Without additional information or signs of active bleeding, it is less likely to be the cause of the patient's frequent swallowing in this scenario.
An adverse reaction to the analgesic is possible, but it would typically present with other symptoms such as allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) or gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting). In the absence of these symptoms, an adverse reaction to the analgesic is less likely.
Lastly, a normal response to the analgesic and surgery would not typically manifest as frequent swallowing. While pain medication can cause side effects, such as drowsiness or nausea, increased swallowing is not a common response.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Assisting the patient to get out of bed is a task that can be safely delegated to UAP, as long as the patient's mobility and transfer status allow for assistance without the need for specialized nursing skills. UAPs are trained to provide basic patient care, including assisting with activities of daily living, under the supervision and direction of licensed healthcare professionals.
Teaching the patient to purse lip breath requires knowledge and understanding of the technique, as well as the ability to assess the patient's response and provide feedback. This is best done by a licensed healthcare professional, such as a nurse or respiratory therapist. Auscultating breath sounds every 4 hours requires the ability to correctly use a stethoscope and interpret the findings. This task falls within the scope of practice of a nurse or respiratory therapist who has received appropriate training.
Planning patient activities to minimize exertion requires knowledge of the patient's condition, limitations, and goals. It involves assessment, evaluation, and coordination of care, which are typically performed by licensed healthcare professionals.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Loop diuretics, such as furosemide, are known to promote diuresis (increased urine output) and can cause electrolyte imbalances, including low potassium (hypokalemia). The patient's statement about eating a diet rich in potassium-containing foods like potatoes, bananas, avocadoes, strawberries, and spinach is incorrect in this context. These foods are indeed good sources of potassium, but when taking loop diuretics, it is necessary to monitor and potentially restrict potassium intake to prevent excessive potassium levels.
"I will weigh myself daily and report to my physician if I gain more than 3 lbs in 1 day." This statement reflects the patient's understanding of the need to monitor their weight daily as a means of assessing fluid balance. Rapid weight gain may indicate fluid retention, which should be reported to the physician.
"This medication can cause dehydration, so I will stay hydrated by consuming at least 2 L or more of fluid per day." This statement demonstrates awareness of the potential for dehydration when taking loop diuretics and the importance of staying adequately hydrated by consuming an appropriate amount of fluids.
"I will change position slowly because I can become dizzy easily while taking this medication." This statement reflects the understanding that loop diuretics can cause orthostatic hypotension,
leading to dizziness upon sudden changes in position. Taking precautions and changing position slowly can help prevent falls and related injuries.
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