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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I will need to drink apple cider vinegar each day."
This statement is incorrect. Drinking apple cider vinegar is not a proven method to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). The client does not need to consume apple cider vinegar as a preventive measure for UTIs.
B. “I will need to wipe my perineal area from back to front after urination."
This statement is incorrect and indicates a need for further teaching. Proper hygiene is essential in preventing UTIs, and wiping from back to front can introduce bacteria from the anal area to the urethra, increasing the risk of UTIs. The correct technique is to wipe from front to back after urination to prevent the spread of bacteria.
C. “I need to drink 8 cups of liquid each day."
This statement is correct. Staying well-hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of fluids, such as 8 cups of liquid each day, can help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract and reduce the risk of UTIs. Proper hydration is a good preventive measure.
D. "I will need to empty my bladder regularly and completely.”
This statement is correct. Emptying the bladder regularly and completely helps prevent the accumulation of bacteria in the urinary tract. Incomplete emptying of the bladder can allow bacteria to multiply, increasing the risk of UTIs. Regular and thorough emptying of the bladder is an important preventive measure against UTIs.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Remove heel boots:
Heel boots are often used to protect the heels from pressure ulcers. However, it's important to assess the skin regularly and remove heel boots periodically to inspect the skin underneath. Leaving them on continuously without proper inspection can cause moisture buildup, leading to skin breakdown.
B. Reposition every 3 hours
Repositioning the client every 3 hours is a crucial intervention to prevent skin breakdown, especially in individuals at risk, such as older adults. Prolonged pressure on specific areas of the body can lead to pressure ulcers or bedsores. Regular repositioning helps relieve pressure on vulnerable areas, improving circulation and reducing the risk of skin breakdown.
C. Apply cornstarch to keep the skin dry:
While it's essential to keep the skin clean and dry, using cornstarch can sometimes lead to moisture retention, especially in skin folds. Excess moisture can contribute to skin breakdown and fungal infections. Instead, proper hygiene practices and the use of moisture-wicking products are recommended.
D. Provide high protein diet:
Adequate nutrition, including a high-protein diet, is essential for overall skin health and healing. Protein is necessary for tissue repair and regeneration. While a balanced diet is crucial for overall health, it is not a specific intervention solely focused on maintaining skin integrity.
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