The nurse is caring for a client that has undergone a modified left radical mastectomy with lymph node removal. Which intervention would assist in preventing lymphedema?
Avoiding arm exercise in the immediate post-op period
Instruct the client to sleep in the left lateral side lying position
Placing cool compresses on the affected arm
Elevating the affected arm on a pillow above the level of the heart
The Correct Answer is D
A. This statement is not advisable. While it is essential to avoid strenuous activity initially, gentle arm exercises and range-of-motion activities are generally encouraged as soon as possible to promote circulation and help prevent lymphedema. Immobilization can actually increase the risk of lymphedema.
B. This intervention is not recommended for preventing lymphedema. Sleeping on the side of the surgery (in this case, the left side) can put pressure on the affected arm and may not promote proper lymphatic drainage. Clients are often advised to sleep on their back or to position themselves in a way that does not compress the affected arm.
C. This intervention can provide temporary relief if there is swelling or discomfort, but it does not effectively prevent lymphedema. While cool compresses might help reduce inflammation, they are not a primary measure for lymphedema prevention.
D. This is the most effective intervention for preventing lymphedema. Elevating the affected arm helps facilitate lymphatic drainage and reduces the risk of fluid accumulation. Keeping the arm elevated above heart level encourages proper circulation and helps manage swelling.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This response is relevant and helps assess the characteristics of the lump. Pain can be an important factor in differentiating between conditions, such as epididymitis, testicular torsion, or tumors. However, while it is a useful question, it may not provide a comprehensive assessment of the situation.
B. This question can be relevant depending on the underlying cause of the lump. Issues with urination may suggest a problem related to the prostate or bladder rather than the testicle itself. While it can help assess urinary tract involvement, it may not directly address the significance of the lump in the testicle.
C. This question is important in the context of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which can cause scrotal swelling or lumps due to conditions like epididymitis or orchitis. However, it does not directly assess the lump itself, making it less focused on the immediate concern.
D. This question addresses the possibility of an STI and related conditions. While it is relevant, it is not the best immediate question concerning the lump in the testicle. The presence of discharge may not directly correlate with the testicular lump itself.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain is obstructed. Common symptoms include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, confusion, difficulty speaking, and visual disturbances. However, "thunderclap" headache and neck stiffness are not typical symptoms of an ischemic stroke.
B. A TIA, often referred to as a "mini-stroke," produces similar symptoms to a stroke but lasts for a short duration (typically less than 24 hours) and does not cause permanent damage. Symptoms can include weakness, speech difficulties, and visual changes, but again, "thunderclap" headache and neck stiffness are not characteristic of a TIA.
C. A subarachnoid hemorrhage occurs when there is bleeding into the space between the brain and the tissues covering it, often due to a ruptured aneurysm. A "thunderclap" headache, described as an extremely sudden and severe headache, is a hallmark of this condition.
D. A cardioembolic stroke is a type of ischemic stroke that occurs when a blood clot forms in the heart and travels to the brain. Symptoms are similar to those of an ischemic stroke and do not typically include a "thunderclap" headache or neck stiffness.
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