A patient who is newly diagnosed with erosive esophagitis secondary to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) reports to the home health nurse that there has been only a minimal reduction in symptoms after taking lansoprazole PO for one full week.
Which action should the nurse take?
Auscultate the patient's bowel sounds and measure the abdominal girth.
Confirm that the patient is taking the medication one hour after meals.
Notify the healthcare provider that the patient may need a change in dosage.
Advise the patient that healing typically takes several weeks to occur.
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is Choice D.
Choice A rationale: Auscultating bowel sounds and measuring abdominal girth are not directly related to the management of erosive esophagitis and GERD symptoms. These actions are more pertinent to assessing gastrointestinal motility and distension, not the effectiveness of lansoprazole.
Choice B rationale: Lansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that should be taken before meals to reduce stomach acid production effectively. Confirming that the patient is taking the medication before meals could help optimize its efficacy but is not the most immediate step.
Choice C rationale: Notifying the healthcare provider about a potential need for a dosage change may be considered if symptoms persist. However, since healing with proton pump inhibitors can take several weeks, this action may be premature after only one week of use.
Choice D rationale: It is appropriate to inform the patient that healing of erosive esophagitis and symptom relief from GERD can take several weeks with lansoprazole. This education helps set realistic expectations and encourages adherence to the prescribed treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While some individuals with Crohn's disease may find that avoiding gluten improves their symptoms, this is not a universal recommendation.
Gluten restriction is more often indicated for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
It's important to individualize dietary recommendations based on personal triggers and sensitivities.
Choice B rationale:
An elimination diet is a systematic approach to identifying foods that may trigger or worsen Crohn's disease symptoms.
It involves removing certain foods from the diet for a period of time, typically 2-4 weeks, and then gradually reintroducing them one at a time to observe any reactions.
This process can help individuals pinpoint specific foods that contribute to their symptoms and make informed dietary choices to manage their condition.
Choice C rationale:
There is no evidence to support a general restriction of calcium and iron in individuals with Crohn's disease.
In fact, these nutrients are essential for overall health and should be consumed in adequate amounts unless a specific deficiency or intolerance is identified.
Restriction of these nutrients could lead to nutritional deficiencies.
Choice D rationale:
Fluid restriction is not a primary dietary limitation for individuals with Crohn's disease.
Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for overall health, especially during flares when fluid loss through diarrhea may be increased.
Restricting fluids could potentially lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Maintains airway patency: Leaving the old ties in place until the new ones are secure ensures that the tracheostomy tube remains in the correct position and prevents accidental decannulation, which could obstruct the airway and lead to respiratory distress or arrest. This is the most important priority in tracheostomy care.
Prevents tube displacement: Accidental decannulation can occur during tie changes, especially in patients with copious secretions or who are restless or agitated. Keeping the old ties in place acts as a safety measure to keep the tube in position even if the new ties are not immediately secured.
Allows for adjustments: If the new ties are not tied correctly or are too tight, the old ties can be loosened or removed to make adjustments without compromising the airway.
Minimizes anxiety: Leaving the old ties in place can help to reduce anxiety in patients who are apprehensive about the tie- changing process, as it provides a sense of security and ensures that the tube will not be dislodged.
Choice B rationale:
Increases risk of skin irritation: Knots tied close to the tube can rub against the skin, causing irritation, discomfort, and potential skin breakdown, especially in patients with sensitive skin or who have copious secretions.
Impinges on blood flow: Tight knots can also constrict blood vessels, potentially impairing circulation to the skin around the tracheostomy site.
Difficult to remove in emergencies: Knots tied too close to the tube can be challenging to untie quickly in case of an emergency, such as accidental decannulation or the need to suction secretions.
Choice C rationale:
Not appropriate for all patients: Disposable, soft foam collars with self-adhesive fastening may not be suitable for patients with copious secretions, as the adhesive may not adhere well to moist skin.
May not provide adequate support: These collars may not provide the same level of support as traditional tracheostomy ties, especially in patients with active neck movement or who are at risk of accidental decannulation.
Potential for skin irritation: The adhesive on the collar can also irritate the skin around the tracheostomy site in some patients.
Choice D rationale:
May not prevent irritation: Placing knots laterally may not completely eliminate the risk of skin irritation, as the ties can still rub against the skin with neck movement or when the patient is lying down.
Could lead to accidental loosening: Knots tied laterally may be more prone to accidental loosening, especially if the patient is restless or agitated.
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