An older adult who is on bed rest after surgery is prescribed morphine for pain. Which of the following is the nurse's priority for preventive care?
Constipation
Poor solid food intake
Poor liquid intake
Diarrhea
The Correct Answer is A
A. Constipation.
Explanation: Constipation is a common side effect of opioid medications like morphine. Older adults, particularly those on bed rest or with reduced mobility, are already at an increased risk of constipation. Morphine further contributes to this risk by slowing down bowel motility. Preventive measures such as promoting adequate hydration, encouraging fiber intake, and considering stool softeners can help prevent constipation in this scenario.
B. Poor solid food intake.
Explanation: While monitoring and addressing poor solid food intake are important for overall nutritional status, it may not be the immediate priority related to morphine use and postoperative care.
C. Poor liquid intake.
Explanation: Ensuring adequate fluid intake is important for overall hydration, but constipation is a more specific and immediate concern associated with opioid use.
D. Diarrhea.
Explanation: Diarrhea is not a common side effect of morphine and is less likely to be the priority for preventive care in this situation. Constipation is a more anticipated concern when opioids are prescribed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)
Explanation: HIPAA, enacted in 1996, focuses on protecting the privacy and security of individuals' health information. While it is essential in healthcare, it is not directly connected to the nursing home reform mandated by the 1987 law.
B. OASIS (Outcome and Assessment Information Set)
Explanation: OASIS is a set of standardized assessments used in home health care, primarily for Medicare-certified home health agencies. It is not directly connected to the nursing home reform mandated by the 1987 law.
C. Fulmer SPICES
Explanation: Fulmer SPICES is a tool used for assessing common geriatric syndromes, but it is not specifically associated with the nursing home reform mandated by the 1987 law.
D. Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI).
Explanation: The Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) is associated with nursing home reform mandated by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1987. OBRA '87 established regulations and standards for nursing homes, including requirements for comprehensive assessments, care planning, and quality of care. The RAI, specifically the Minimum Data Set (MDS), is a standardized assessment tool used to evaluate the health status and needs of nursing home residents, ensuring a consistent and comprehensive approach to resident assessment and care planning.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Decreased serum albumin levels.
Explanation: Decreased serum albumin levels can be an indicator of poor nutritional status, but they are not as immediate or easily observed as unintentional weight loss.
B. Decreased vitamin D levels.
Explanation: Decreased vitamin D levels may indicate a specific nutrient deficiency but may not capture the overall nutritional status comprehensively.
C. Unintentional weight loss.
Explanation: Unintentional weight loss is a significant indicator of potential nutritional deficits and can be associated with underlying health issues. It can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients, negatively impacting an individual's overall health and well-being. Weight loss should prompt further assessment and intervention to identify the underlying causes and address nutritional needs
D. Anorexia lasting more than 24 hours.
Explanation: Anorexia (loss of appetite) lasting more than 24 hours may contribute to inadequate nutrient intake, but it is not as direct an indicator as unintentional weight loss, which reflects changes in body composition and overall nutritional status.
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