Five months following treatment for herpes zoster, an older adult client tells the home health nurse of continuing to experience pain where the rash occurred. Which action should the nurse implement?
Teach the client about phantom pain symptoms.
Perform a complete mental status exam.
Determine if the client has had a shingles vaccination.
Complete an assessment of the client's pain.
The Correct Answer is D
D. Persistent pain following the resolution of herpes zoster, known as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), is a common complication, especially in older adults. PHN can cause significant discomfort and affect the client's quality of life. Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the client's pain to better understand its characteristics, severity, duration, aggravating or alleviating factors, and impact on daily activities.
A. Patient education should follow a complete assessment of the pain to ascertain the diagnosis.
B. Performing a complete mental status exam is not indicated solely based on the client's report of persistent pain from herpes zoster.
C. Determining if the client has had a shingles vaccination is important for preventive healthcare, but it is not the priority action in addressing the client's current pain concern related to PHN. The focus should be on assessing and managing the client's pain to improve their comfort and well-being.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","F"]
Explanation
B. Sugary beverages and juices are major sources of added sugars and can contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. By eliminating these beverages from the diet, the client can reduce their intake of empty calories and excess sugars, which may help improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of diabetes.
C. Fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, can help improve blood sugar control, promote satiety, and support weight management. Fiber also helps regulate bowel movements and may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus.
F. Refined grains, such as white bread, white rice, and sugary cereals, have been stripped of their fiber and nutrients during processing, leading to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. Minimizing the intake of refined grains and opting for whole grains instead can help stabilize blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
A. While some studies have suggested that cinnamon may have beneficial effects on blood sugar control, the evidence is limited and inconsistent. Additionally, taking high doses of cinnamon supplements may not be safe for everyone, particularly those with liver disease or taking certain medications.
D. While reducing intake of unhealthy fats, such as saturated and trans fats, is important for overall health and reducing the risk of heart disease, eliminating all fats from the diet is unnecessary and potentially harmful. Healthy fats, such as those found in nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil, are essential for nutrient absorption, hormone production, and overall well-being.
E. Increasing protein intake significantly may not be necessary or advisable for this client, especially without knowing their specific dietary needs and preferences. While protein is an important macronutrient for muscle repair and maintenance, doubling the usual amount of protein in the diet may not offer additional benefits and could potentially lead to imbalances in other nutrients.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Performing a bedside pregnancy test is crucial before proceeding with surgery for a female of childbearing age who may be pregnant. This test provides immediate information about the client's pregnancy status and helps ensure that appropriate precautions are taken to safeguard the health of both the client and the potential fetus.
A. Proceeding with surgery without confirming the pregnancy status could potentially expose the fetus to unnecessary risks if the client is indeed pregnant.
B. Canceling the surgery without confirming the pregnancy status may also delay necessary treatment for the client's acute appendicitis.
D. may provide valuable information about the potential stage of pregnancy if the client is indeed pregnant. However, confirming the pregnancy status through a bedside pregnancy test is the most immediate and definitive action
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