Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices below to specify what condition the client is most likely experiencing, 2 actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and 2 parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client’s progress.
The Correct Answer is []
The client reports joint pain in the knee and wrist with a history of gout in the family. The elevated uric acid level (7.2 mg/dL) supports a diagnosis of gout, a condition caused by uric acid crystal deposition in the joints. The negative ANA and normal ESR make inflammatory autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus unlikely.
Actions to Take:
Instruct the client to avoid foods high in purines.
Purine-rich foods (e.g., red meat, shellfish, organ meats) contribute to increased uric acid production, exacerbating gout symptoms. Dietary modifications can help reduce flare-ups and long-term complications.
Instruct the client to apply topical analgesics.
Topical analgesics can provide localized pain relief and reduce discomfort in affected joints. They serve as an adjunct to systemic medications in managing acute symptoms.
Parameters to Monitor:
Uric acid levels.
Monitoring uric acid levels helps assess the effectiveness of dietary changes and medications in preventing flare-ups and reducing joint damage.
Joint deformities.
Chronic gout can lead to joint destruction and tophi formation, so assessing for deformities helps track disease progression and the need for further interventions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Arterial blood gases: Arterial blood gas (ABG) tests are typically used to assess respiratory and metabolic function, including the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. While important in many clinical situations, ABGs are not specifically relevant for monitoring a client on levothyroxine, as it does not directly affect gas exchange or acid-base balance.
B) Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH): TSH is the most important laboratory test to monitor in a client taking levothyroxine, as this medication is used to replace or supplement thyroid hormone levels. Levothyroxine directly affects thyroid hormone levels in the body, so monitoring TSH levels is essential for determining whether the medication dosage needs to be adjusted. Elevated TSH levels may indicate that the dose is too low, while low levels may suggest an overdose.
C) Prothrombin time: Prothrombin time (PT) is used to assess blood clotting and coagulation status. While certain thyroid conditions can influence coagulation, PT is not a routine test to monitor in clients on levothyroxine therapy unless there are specific concerns related to bleeding or clotting. It is not the most relevant test for monitoring thyroid function in this context.
D) Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels reflect kidney function and hydration status. While kidney function is always important to monitor, BUN is not specifically used to assess the effects of levothyroxine therapy. It would not provide direct information regarding the effectiveness of the medication or the thyroid status of the client.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Rolls from back to abdomen: Rolling from back to abdomen is a typical developmental milestone for a 4-month-old infant. By this age, infants usually have increased muscle strength and coordination, allowing them to start rolling over. This movement helps build their core strength, which is important for later developmental milestones like sitting up and crawling.
B) Moves objects to mouth: It is common for a 4-month-old to move objects to their mouth as they begin exploring the world around them. This action is a key part of sensory development and helps infants develop their hand-to-mouth coordination. Additionally, this behavior assists in teething and the development of oral motor skills.
C) Anterior fontanel closed: The anterior fontanel normally closes between 12 to 18 months of age. If it is closed at 4 months, it may suggest abnormal cranial growth, such as craniosynostosis, where the sutures of the skull close too early. This could lead to increased pressure on the brain, which can cause developmental delays or other complications, so the provider should be notified for further assessment.
D) Posterior fontanel closed: The posterior fontanel typically closes by 2 to 3 months of age. If it is closed by 4 months, it is completely normal and indicates proper cranial development. The closing of the posterior fontanel helps ensure the skull's bones are fusing together as expected, and it does not raise any concerns at this stage.
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