The nurse is preparing a teaching plan for a client taking a prescribed diuretic for edema in the lower extremities. Which instruction should the nurse include in this teaching plan?
Take the diuretic every day, regardless of weight loss or muscle weakness.
Weigh yourself daily at the same time and report excessive weight loss.
Limit fluid intake while taking the diuretic to reduce fluid retention.
Stop taking the medication when the edema in the lower extremities subsides.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Diuretics can cause electrolyte imbalances and dehydration, leading to muscle weakness. The patient should report any signs of muscle weakness to the healthcare provider.
B. Weight is a good indicator of fluid loss. Monitoring daily weight and reporting excessive weight loss helps to evaluate the effectiveness of the diuretic and detect potential complications.
C. Limiting fluid intake while on a diuretic can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Adequate fluid intake is essential.
D. Diuretics are often prescribed for long-term management of edema. The patient should not stop taking the medication without consulting the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Clear breath sounds indicate effective ventilation and oxygenation, which are the desired outcomes of incentive spirometry. This outcome directly reflects the effectiveness of the incentive spirometer in preventing atelectasis and improving lung expansion.
B. A productive cough suggests mobilization of secretions. While this is important for airway clearance, it is not a direct measure of the effectiveness of the incentive spirometer. This outcome is related to airway clearance, but not specifically to the incentive spirometer's role in lung expansion.
C. This outcome measures the client's ability to use the device correctly but does not assess the effectiveness of the device in improving lung function. This outcome is important but does not directly address the goal of the incentive spirometer.
D. This outcome measures compliance with the therapy but does not assess its effectiveness in improving lung function. This outcome is important for adherence but does not directly address the goal of the incentive spirometer.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A decreased pleural effusion on a chest x-ray is generally a positive outcome following a thoracentesis. It indicates that the procedure was successful in removing the excess fluid. This finding does not warrant immediate intervention and is expected after the procedure.
B. The pH of 7.35 indicates acidosis (normal range is 7.35 to 7.45). The PaCO₂ is on the lower end of normal, suggesting that if there is an acid-base imbalance, it might be metabolic or mixed. The HCO₃⁻ is within normal limits, indicating no metabolic component. The PaO₂ is slightly below the normal range (80-100 mm Hg), which could be a concern but is not critically low.
C. Asymmetrical chest wall expansion can indicate a complication such as pneumothorax (air in the pleural space), which could occur as a complication of thoracentesis. This finding warrants immediate intervention because it may signify a serious issue that requires prompt attention, such as the need for a chest tube or further evaluation.
D. Pain at the insertion site is expected following a thoracentesis and is generally not an urgent concern unless it is severe or associated with other symptoms like fever, difficulty breathing, or signs of infection. This type of pain is usually managed with analgesics and does not typically require immediate intervention unless accompanied by more serious symptoms.
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