The nurse is caring for a client with chemotherapy-induced mucositis who is describing soreness of the tongue and oral issues. Which is the best initial nursing action?
Obtain a soft diet for the client.
Encourage frequent mouth care.
Cleanse the tongue and mouth with swabs.
Administer a topical analgesic per protocol.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Obtaining a soft diet for the client is not the best initial nursing action for a client with chemotherapy-induced mucositis who is describing soreness of the tongue and oral issues. A soft diet can help reduce the irritation and discomfort of the oral mucosa, but it does not address the underlying cause of the inflammation and infection. The nurse should first assess the client's oral hygiene and provide appropriate interventions to prevent further complications.
Choice B reason: Encouraging frequent mouth care is the best initial nursing action for a client with chemotherapy-induced mucositis who is describing soreness of the tongue and oral issues. Frequent mouth care can help prevent or reduce the severity of mucositis by removing plaque, bacteria, and debris from the oral cavity, and by moisturizing and soothing the oral tissues. The nurse should instruct the client to use a soft toothbrush, a mild toothpaste, and a saline or bicarbonate rinse at least four times a day, and to avoid alcohol, tobacco, spicy, acidic, or hot foods and beverages.
Choice C reason: Cleansing the tongue and mouth with swabs is not the best initial nursing action for a client with chemotherapy-induced mucositis who is describing soreness of the tongue and oral issues. Swabs can be abrasive and damaging to the oral mucosa, especially if they are dry or contain alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. Swabs can also increase the risk of bleeding, infection, and ulceration of the oral tissues. The nurse should use a soft toothbrush or a gentle sponge to clean the tongue and mouth.
Choice D reason: Administering a topical analgesic per protocol is not the best initial nursing action for a client with chemotherapy-induced mucositis who is describing soreness of the tongue and oral issues. A topical analgesic can provide temporary relief of pain and discomfort, but it does not address the underlying cause of the inflammation and infection. The nurse should first assess the client's oral hygiene and provide appropriate interventions to prevent further complications. The nurse should also monitor the client's response to the analgesic and report any adverse effects or inadequate pain control.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is correct because performing a bedside pregnancy test is the intervention that should be implemented immediately by the nurse. This is to confirm or rule out pregnancy and inform the surgical team of any possible risks or complications that may affect the client or the fetus.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because continuing with surgery as scheduled is not an appropriate intervention without verifying the pregnancy status of the client. Surgery may pose serious threats to both maternal and fetal health, such as bleeding, infection, anesthesia complications, or miscarriage.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because calculating gestation from last menstrual cycle is not an accurate or reliable method of determining pregnancy. The menstrual cycle can vary widely among women and may be affected by various factors such as stress, illness, or medication.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because notifying the surgical team to cancel the surgery is not a necessary intervention unless pregnancy is confirmed. Appendicitis is a medical emergency that requires prompt surgical treatment to prevent rupture, peritonitis, or sepsis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Weight gain of 2 pounds (0.91 kg) in one day is a sign of fluid retention, which occurs in SIADH due to excessive secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). ADH causes the kidneys to reabsorb water and reduce urine output, leading to hyponatremia and hypervolemia.
Choice B reason: Fremitus over the chest wall is a sign of increased vibration or air movement in the lungs, which can indicate pneumonia, bronchitis, or pleural effusion. These are not related to SIADH, but may be complications of head injury or fluid overload.
Choice C reason: Serum sodium of 150 mEq/L (150 mmol/L) is a sign of hypernatremia, which is a high level of sodium in the blood. This is the opposite of what happens in SIADH, where sodium levels are low due to dilution by excess water.
Choice D reason: Urine specific gravity of 1.004 is a sign of diluted urine, which indicates low concentration of solutes in the urine. This is also the opposite of what happens in SIADH, where urine is concentrated and has a high specific gravity.
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