The nurse is caring for a client who has been admitted with a diagnosis of esophageal cancer.
The client reports a pain level of 8 on a 0 to 10 pain scale, dysphagia, anorexia, anxiety, and a hoarse voice. Which nursing problem is the priority for this client?

Choice A rationale:

Amber urine can be a sign of dehydration, but it is not specific to cholelithiasis with a gallstone lodged in the common bile duct.

While it's important to monitor hydration status in patients with nausea and vomiting, amber urine alone would not be the most urgent finding to report to the healthcare provider in this context.

Choice B rationale:

Belching is a common symptom of gastrointestinal disorders, but it is not specific to cholelithiasis with a gallstone obstruction. It can be caused by various factors, such as swallowing air, eating too quickly, or drinking carbonated beverages.

While belching might be a symptom the nurse documents, it would not be the most concerning finding to report immediately.

Choice C rationale:

Flatulence is another common gastrointestinal symptom that can have various causes, including dietary choices, bacterial fermentation in the intestines, and certain medications.

It is not specific to cholelithiasis with a gallstone obstruction and would not be the most relevant finding to prioritize reporting.

Choice D rationale:

Yellow sclera, also known as jaundice, is a significant finding that strongly suggests cholestasis, which is the obstruction of bile flow.

Bile, a fluid produced by the liver, aids in digestion and gives stool its brownish color.

When bile flow is obstructed, as in the case of a gallstone lodged in the common bile duct, bilirubin (a component of bile) builds up in the bloodstream and tissues, leading to yellowing of the skin and sclera (the whites of the eyes).

This is a crucial finding to report to the healthcare provider because it indicates a worsening of the patient's condition and the need for prompt intervention to address the obstruction.

A Colloidal oatmeal-based lotion: Colloidal oatmeal can help to reduce itching and swelling, all while hydrating the skin. It is often used to soothe irritated skin and can be incorporated into a skincare routine through oatmeal baths or oatmeal-infused moisturizers. However, it is typically used as a complementary treatment and may not be sufficient to manage psoriasis symptoms on its own.

B Topical corticosteroids: These are an essential tool for treating inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis34. They work by reducing inflammation and slowing down the production of skin cells, which helps to alleviate symptoms such as redness, itching, and scaling. Topical corticosteroids are often the first line of treatment for mild to moderate psoriasis.

C. Topical analgesics: These are primarily used to relieve pain. While they may provide some relief from discomfort associated with psoriasis, they do not address the underlying inflammation and rapid skin cell production that characterize this condition.

D Topical antifungal: Antifungal agents are typically used to treat conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis, or in areas where psoriasis involves folds in the skin, where there is an increased potential for localized infection. However, they are not typically used as a primary treatment for psoriasis.