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 ["438"]
Explanation
To calculate the high-end dosage for a 125 kg patient, you can multiply the weight in kilograms (125 kg) by the high-end dosage range (3.5 mg/kg):
High-end dosage = 125 kg * 3.5 mg/kg = 437.5 mg
Rounded to whole number give 438mg.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Foam:
Explanation: Foam dressings are highly absorbent and provide cushioning and protection to wounds. They are suitable for wounds with moderate to heavy drainage. While foam dressings are excellent for wound exudate management, they are not specifically designed for protecting bony prominences or areas with poor skin integrity.
B. Non-adherent:
Explanation: Non-adherent dressings are made from materials that do not stick to the wound bed. They are ideal for fragile skin, bony prominences, or superficial wounds where minimizing trauma during dressing changes is important. Non-adherent dressings are often used for preventing further skin damage in malnourished clients with poor skin integrity.
C. Ace bandage:
Explanation: Ace bandages, or elastic bandages, are primarily used for providing compression and support to injured joints or muscles. They are not designed for protecting bony prominences or fragile skin areas. Using an Ace bandage on a bony prominence could lead to pressure points and skin damage.
D. Hydrocolloid:
Explanation: Hydrocolloid dressings are absorbent and form a gel-like barrier when they come into contact with wound exudate. They provide a moist environment that supports healing and autolytic debridement. Hydrocolloid dressings are suitable for wounds with light to moderate drainage. While they are beneficial for certain wounds, they are not specifically indicated for protecting bony prominences in malnourished clients.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today