The nurse is caring for an 84-year-old female client who was brought to the emergency room by her daughter, who related that her mother has had very recent mental status changes and periods of incontinence. What condition should the nurse first suspect?

Urinary tract infection

Acute kidney failure

Septic shock

Urinary stasis

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Urinary tract infection
The symptoms described, including recent mental status changes and periods of incontinence, are suggestive of a urinary tract infection (UTI) in an elderly individual. UTIs are common among older adults and can cause a variety of symptoms, including confusion, which is often the primary manifestation in the elderly population. Other symptoms can include urinary urgency, frequency, and incontinence.

B. Acute kidney failure - While acute kidney failure can cause changes in urination and mental status, it is less likely to be the primary cause of these symptoms in this scenario. UTI is a more common and immediate concern given the symptoms described.

C. Septic shock - Septic shock is a severe condition that occurs when an infection leads to a life-threatening drop in blood pressure. While septic shock can cause altered mental status, it is a critical condition that often presents with more dramatic symptoms and requires immediate intensive care management. The symptoms described are more suggestive of a UTI.

D. Urinary stasis - Urinary stasis refers to the slowing or cessation of urine flow. While urinary stasis can contribute to the development of UTIs, it is not a condition that would cause sudden and acute mental status changes and incontinence on its own. UTI is a more likely cause of the symptoms described.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Increased urinary output: Phenazopyridine (Pyridium) does not directly impact urinary output. Its primary function is to provide relief from urinary pain, burning, and discomfort associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) or other urinary conditions. It does not affect the amount of urine a person produces.

B. Decreased WBC's: Phenazopyridine does not directly influence white blood cell count (WBCs). WBC count is an indicator of the body's immune response and is typically used to assess the presence of infection. Phenazopyridine provides symptomatic relief but does not affect the underlying infection or the body's immune response to it.

C. Increased uric acid: Phenazopyridine does not affect uric acid levels. Uric acid is a waste product that is excreted by the kidneys. Elevated uric acid levels can be associated with conditions like gout, but Phenazopyridine does not have any direct impact on these levels.

D. Decreased bladder pain/spasms: Phenazopyridine is intended to relieve symptoms such as bladder pain, spasms, burning sensation, and discomfort experienced during urination. Therefore, the effectiveness of Phenazopyridine is indicated by a reduction in these symptoms. If the patient reports a decrease in bladder pain and spasms, it suggests that the medication is working to alleviate the discomfort associated with urinary tract issues.

A. Sedentary lifestyle B. Long-term use of diuretics C. Prolonged stress D. Obesity

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Sedentary lifestyle - Lack of weight-bearing exercise and physical activity is a significant risk factor for the development of osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises help maintain bone density and strength. Sedentary individuals are more prone to osteoporosis.

B. Long-term use of diuretics - Long-term use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids, can increase the risk of osteoporosis. Diuretics are not typically associated with osteoporosis risk, although some medications can affect bone health.

C. Prolonged stress - Chronic stress can have negative effects on overall health, but it is not a direct risk factor for osteoporosis.

D. Obesity - Obesity is generally considered a protective factor against osteoporosis. Individuals with higher body weight tend to have stronger bones due to the mechanical load placed on the bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

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The nurse is caring for an 84-year-old female client who was brought to the emergency room by her daughter, who related that her mother has had very recent mental status changes and periods of incontinence. What condition should the nurse first suspect?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client started on Phenazopyridine (Pyridium). Which of the following indicates this medication is effective?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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