A patient diagnosed with HIV-II and wasting syndrome is suffering from inadequate nutrition. What assessment finding by the nurse would best indicate that the goals have been met for this patient’s problem?
The patient has gained 2 lb (1 kg) in a month.
The patient consumes 90% of meals and snacks.
The patient chooses high-protein food.
The patient reports decreased oral discomfort.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Weight gain is the most objective and reliable indicator of improved nutritional status in patients with HIV-II and wasting syndrome. It directly reflects an increase in lean body mass, which is essential for restoring physical strength, immune function, and overall health.
A weight gain of 2 lb (1 kg) in a month is considered a clinically significant improvement for this patient population. It demonstrates that the patient is consuming more calories than they are expending, leading to a positive energy balance and tissue growth.
Other assessment findings, such as food intake, food choices, and oral discomfort, can be subjective and influenced by various factors, such as appetite, taste changes, nausea, fatigue, and psychosocial issues. While they provide valuable information about the patient's nutritional status, they do not directly measure the actual improvement in body composition.
Choice B rationale:
Consuming 90% of meals and snacks is a positive sign that the patient is adhering to their dietary recommendations. However, it does not guarantee that they are consuming enough calories to promote weight gain. The patient's individual energy needs and the nutritional content of the meals and snacks must be considered.
Choice C rationale:
Choosing high-protein foods is important for building and repairing tissues, but it does not ensure adequate overall caloric intake. The patient may still be experiencing a calorie deficit if they are not consuming enough total calories, even if they are focusing on protein-rich foods.
Choice D rationale:
Decreased oral discomfort can facilitate better food intake, but it does not directly reflect weight gain or improved nutritional status. The patient may still have challenges with appetite, nausea, or other factors that hinder their ability to consume enough calories.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Explaining legal requirements to inform sex partners at this initial stage is not the most appropriate or supportive intervention.
The client is in a state of emotional distress and may not be receptive to information about legal obligations. It's crucial to first address the client's emotional needs and provide support before discussing legal matters.
Prematurely focusing on legalities could further overwhelm the client and potentially hinder the development of a trusting relationship with the nurse.
Choice C rationale:
Offering to inform the family for the client, while well-intentioned, may not respect the client's autonomy and right to privacy. The decision to disclose HIV status to family members is a personal one that should be made by the client, not the nurse.
It's important to empower the client to make their own choices about disclosure and provide support throughout the process.
Choice D rationale:
Determining if a clergy member would help could be a valuable resource for some clients, but it should not be the first or only intervention.
It's essential to first assess the client's individual needs and preferences regarding spiritual support.
Not all clients may find comfort in religious or spiritual guidance, and some may prefer to seek support from other sources.
Choice B rationale:
Assessing the client for support systems is the most appropriate initial intervention because it focuses on the client's immediate needs for emotional support and connection.
By identifying existing support systems (such as family, friends, or community organizations), the nurse can help the client access resources that can provide comfort, understanding, and assistance in coping with the diagnosis.
This approach recognizes the client's emotional state and prioritizes their psychosocial well-being, which is essential in the initial stages of coping with an HIV diagnosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Utilizing a respirator when handling urine output is not the most appropriate action for a nurse caring for a patient with MRSA.
MRSA is not typically transmitted through the air, but rather through direct contact with infected wounds or contaminated surfaces.
While a respirator may offer some protection against airborne particles, it is not necessary for routine care of a patient with MRSA.
It is more important to focus on hand hygiene and other infection control measures.
Choice B rationale:
Restricting visitors strictly to immediate family members only is not necessary for a patient with MRSA.
While it is important to limit the number of visitors to reduce the risk of spreading infection, there is no need to restrict visitors to immediate family members only.
Visitors should be instructed on proper hand hygiene and other infection control measures, and they should avoid contact with the patient's wounds or dressings.
Choice C rationale:
Washing hands only after removing gloves post-care is not sufficient for preventing the spread of MRSA. It is important to wash hands before and after any contact with the patient, even when wearing gloves.
This is because gloves can become contaminated with bacteria, and hand washing helps to remove any bacteria that may have gotten on the hands.
Choice D rationale:
Preparing to administer vancomycin is the most appropriate action for a nurse caring for a patient with MRSA. Vancomycin is an antibiotic that is effective against MRSA.
It is often used to treat MRSA infections, and it can help to prevent the infection from spreading.
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