The triage nurse in the emergency department is assessing a client who reports pain and swelling in the right lower leg. The client's pain became much worse last night and appeared along with fever, chills, and sweating. The client states, "I hit my leg on the car door 4 or 5 days ago, and the sore is getting bigger" The client has a history of diabetes mellitus type 2. Which condition should the nurse anticipate for this client?

Venous thromboembolism (VTE)

Cellulitis

Arterial insufficiency

Thrombocytopenia

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) - While VTE can cause leg pain and swelling, the presence of fever, chills, and localized trauma history in this scenario points more toward cellulitis.

B. Cellulitis
The client's symptoms, including pain, swelling, fever, chills, and sweating, are indicative of cellulitis, which is a bacterial skin infection. The history of trauma to the leg (hitting the leg on the car door) could have introduced bacteria into the skin, leading to the infection. The client's diabetes mellitus type 2 also increases the risk of developing skin infections due to impaired immune function and circulation. Cellulitis often presents with localized pain, swelling, warmth, redness, and systemic symptoms like fever and chills. Immediate medical evaluation and appropriate antibiotic treatment are necessary for cellulitis.

C. Arterial insufficiency - Arterial insufficiency typically presents with symptoms like intermittent claudication, rest pain, and non-healing wounds due to poor circulation. The symptoms described in the scenario are more consistent with an acute infection (cellulitis) rather than chronic arterial insufficiency.

D. Thrombocytopenia - Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by low platelet count and does not directly cause localized pain, swelling, and redness in the leg as described in the scenario.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Void every 6 to 8 hours:This interval may not be frequent enough. It is generally recommended to void every 2 to 3 hours to help flush out bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.

B. Avoid voiding immediately after sexual intercourse.This is not recommended. It is actually advised to void immediately after sexual intercourse to help flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra.

C. Take a bubble bath daily and keep the perineal region clean:
While keeping the perineal region clean is important for general hygiene, taking bubble baths and using heavily scented products can irritate the urethra and potentially increase the risk of UTIs. The nurse should advise against frequent bubble baths and suggest using mild, unscented soaps for the perineal area.

D. Increase the daily amount of water consumed:
Drinking more water helps increase urine output, which helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract and can reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs.

A. Restrict calcium intake to one serving per day. B. Take 3.000 mg of vitamin C daily. C. The nurse should instruct the client to limit foods high in purines. D. Eat 12 oz of animal protein daily.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Restrict calcium intake to one serving per day:
This statement is not accurate. Adequate calcium intake is essential for bone health. Calcium-rich foods are important for maintaining strong bones and are not directly related to gout or uric acid kidney stones. It's crucial to differentiate between dietary recommendations for different health conditions.

B. Take 3,000 mg of vitamin C daily:
High doses of vitamin C can increase urinary oxalate and uric acid levels, which might contribute to the formation of kidney stones. It is generally not recommended for individuals with a history of uric acid kidney stones.

C. The nurse should instruct the client to limit foods high in purines.
Dietary changes are important in managing gout and preventing uric acid kidney stones. Purines are natural substances found in many foods, especially animal products, and purine-rich foods can contribute to increased uric acid levels, leading to gout attacks and kidney stones.

D. Eat 12 oz of animal protein daily:
Consuming excessive amounts of animal protein, particularly red meat, can lead to higher purine intake, which is not advisable for individuals prone to gout and uric acid kidney stones. High animal protein intake can increase uric acid production and may exacerbate these conditions. Moderation in protein intake, especially from animal sources, is recommended.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A female client has been experiencing recurrent urinary tract infections. What health education should the nurse provide to this client?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is providing dietary teaching to a client who has a history of gout and recurring uric acid kidney stones. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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