An older adult client is admitted to the medical unit following a fall at home. While undressing the client, the nurse observes that the client is wearing an adult diaper and skin breakdown is obvious over the sacral area. Which action should the nurse implement first?
Apply a barrier ointment to intact areas that may be exposed to moisture.
Determine the size and depth of skin breakdown over the sacral area.
Complete a functional assessment of the client's self-care abilities.
Establish a toileting schedule to decrease episodes of incontinence.
The Correct Answer is B
A. While applying a barrier ointment is important for preventing further skin breakdown, it does not address the immediate need to assess the severity of existing damage.
B. Determining the size and depth of skin breakdown is crucial for assessing the severity of the pressure injury and planning appropriate treatment. Accurate assessment helps in selecting the right interventions and monitoring the progression of the wound.
C. Completing a functional assessment of the client's self-care abilities is important for overall care planning but should follow the initial assessment of the skin breakdown to ensure immediate needs are addressed.
D. Establishing a toileting schedule is a preventive measure for future incontinence but does not address the current skin breakdown that needs immediate assessment and treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Suggesting a stool softener is appropriate as it helps to ease bowel movements and reduce straining, which can alleviate pain associated with hemorrhoids and help establish a regular bowel pattern.
B. Recommending a daily laxative may not be appropriate for long-term use and could potentially exacerbate the issue if overused. It is generally better to start with less invasive measures like stool softeners.
C. Obtaining a stool specimen may be necessary for diagnostic purposes but does not directly address the immediate concern of painful defecation due to hemorrhoids.
D. Discussing oral analgesic options might help with pain management, but it does not address the underlying issue of constipation and the need for a regular bowel pattern. Stool softeners are more directly related to resolving the constipation problem.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Adjusting the hand grips is necessary to ensure that the client can bear weight comfortably through the arms without placing stress on the wrists or shoulders, so avoiding this adjustment is incorrect.
B. Holding the crutch 6 inches to the side is a common guideline, but it is not as crucial as ensuring the correct fit of the crutches to avoid axillary nerve damage and ensure proper posture.
C. The crutch should fit 2 finger widths below the axilla to prevent pressure on the brachial plexus nerves, which can lead to nerve damage. This demonstrates an understanding of proper crutch fit and use.
D. Walking with the arms fully extended is incorrect; the arms should be slightly bent at the elbows to allow for proper weight distribution and movement.
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