What nursing intervention is appropriate for a client with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)?
Administer topical hydrocortisone
Apply cold therapy to the extremities
Administer antibiotics
Encourage ultraviolet (UV) light exposure
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Administering topical hydrocortisone is the appropriate nursing intervention, because it can help reduce the inflammation and itching of the skin lesions that are common in SLE. SLE is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack various organs and tissues, such as the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, and blood vessels. Hydrocortisone is a type of corticosteroid that can suppress the immune response and relieve the symptoms of SLE.
Choice B reason: Applying cold therapy to the extremities is not the appropriate nursing intervention, because it can worsen the circulation and sensation of the fingers and toes that are affected by Raynaud's phenomenon, which is a complication of SLE. Raynaud's phenomenon is a condition that causes the blood vessels in the extremities to narrow and spasm in response to cold or stress, resulting in numbness, pain, and color changes. Cold therapy can trigger or aggravate Raynaud's phenomenon.
Choice C reason: Administering antibiotics is not the appropriate nursing intervention, because it is not indicated for SLE, unless there is a secondary infection. SLE is not caused by bacteria, but by the abnormal activity of the immune system. Antibiotics are drugs that can kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, but they have no effect on the underlying cause of SLE. Antibiotics can also have side effects, such as allergic reactions, gastrointestinal disturbances, or resistance.
Choice D reason: Encouraging ultraviolet (UV) light exposure is not the appropriate nursing intervention, because it can trigger or worsen the skin lesions and the disease activity of SLE. UV light is a type of radiation that can damage the DNA and the cells of the skin, causing inflammation, redness, and blistering. UV light can also stimulate the production of antibodies and cytokines that can attack the organs and tissues of the body.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Alcohol can trigger a gout attack because it increases the production and decreases the excretion of uric acid, which is the substance that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. Alcohol also dehydrates the body, which can worsen the symptoms of gout.
Choice B reason: Fruit juice is not a beverage that can trigger a gout attack. Fruit juice contains natural sugars and antioxidants, which may have a beneficial effect on the uric acid levels and the inflammation in the body. However, fruit juice should be consumed in moderation, as excess sugar intake can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
Choice C reason: Milk is not a beverage that can trigger a gout attack. Milk contains protein and calcium, which may help lower the uric acid levels and the risk of gout. Milk also has antiinflammatory properties, which may reduce the pain and swelling in the joints.
Choice D reason: Coffee is not a beverage that can trigger a gout attack. Coffee contains caffeine and antioxidants, which may have a protective effect on the uric acid levels and the inflammation in the body. Coffee also has a diuretic effect, which may help flush out the excess uric acid from the kidneys.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: The client having a butterfly rash is not a concerning finding in a client with SLE. A butterfly rash is a malar rash that appears across the cheeks and the bridge of the nose. It is a common sign of SLE and may flare up or fade depending on the disease activity. It does not indicate any serious complication or organ damage.
Choice B reason: A blood pressure of 126/85 mm Hg is not a concerning finding in a client with SLE. This blood pressure is within the normal range and does not indicate hypertension or hypotension. Hypertension is a possible complication of SLE that may affect the kidneys, the heart, or the brain. Hypotension may indicate shock, dehydration, or infection.
Choice C reason: The client reporting chronic fatigue is not a concerning finding in a client with SLE. Chronic fatigue is a common symptom of SLE that affects the quality of life and the ability to perform daily activities. It may be caused by inflammation, pain, anemia, depression, or medication side effects. It does not indicate any acute or lifethreatening condition.
Choice D reason: A urine output of 20 mL/hour is a concerning finding in a client with SLE. This urine output is below the normal range of 30 to 50 mL/hour and indicates oliguria, which is a reduced urine production. Oliguria may indicate acute kidney injury, which is a serious complication of SLE that may lead to renal failure or death. The nurse should monitor the client's urine output, fluid balance, electrolytes, and kidney function and report any abnormal findings to the provider.
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