A patient with multiple myeloma calls the home health nurse complaining of severe back pain of new onset. The appropriate response by the nurse is to do which of the following?
Inquire about the patient's use of NSAIDs and analgesics to manage pain.
Reassure the patient that bone pain is expected with this disease.
Suggest the use of a back brace to reduce pain.
Notify the healthcare provider of the onset of new pain.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: While it is useful to know the patient's current pain management strategies, new onset severe back pain could indicate a serious complication such as a spinal fracture or compression, which requires immediate attention.
Choice B reason: Reassuring the patient is not appropriate without further assessment, as new onset severe pain could signify a serious issue that needs to be addressed.
Choice C reason: Suggesting a back brace may be part of the management plan, but it should not precede notifying the healthcare provider of new severe pain.
Choice D reason: Notifying the healthcare provider is the correct action because new onset severe back pain in a patient with multiple myeloma could indicate a serious condition such as a spinal fracture or compression, which requires prompt evaluation and treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason : Maintenance chemotherapy is not typically used to maintain remission in Hodgkin's lymphoma after successful treatment.
Choice B reason : Follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring any signs of recurrence or secondary malignancies, as well as managing long-term effects of treatment.
Choice C reason : The potential impact of chemotherapy on fertility is an important topic, especially for younger patients, but may not be as relevant for a 55-year-old woman.
Choice D reason : Addressing symptoms like pruritus, which can persist after treatment, is important for patient comfort and quality of life.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Evaluating the effectiveness of opioid analgesics is crucial as pain management is a primary concern for patients experiencing a sickle cell crisis.
Choice B reason: Limiting the patient's intake of oral and IV fluids is not recommended as hydration is important for patients with sickle cell crisis to reduce blood viscosity and improve circulation.
Choice C reason: Teaching the patient about high-protein, high-calorie foods is beneficial for long-term management but is not the immediate nursing intervention during a crisis.
Choice D reason: Encouraging ambulation may be part of recovery but is not the primary intervention during an acute sickle cell crisis due to the risk of pain exacerbation.
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