When planning care for a patient diagnosed with fibromyalgia, the nurse addresses the potential problem of activity intolerance. What should the nurse recommend to the patient to most effectively address this problem?

A program of regular mild to moderate exercise

Daily meditation and guided imagery

Referral to physical therapy for an assistive device

NSAID medications on a regular schedule

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A:
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties. Activity intolerance is a common symptom, resulting in patients experiencing increased fatigue, pain, and decreased function with exertion.
A program of regular mild to moderate exercise is considered the cornerstone of management for fibromyalgia. Exercise improves physical fitness, reduces pain intensity, and enhances sleep quality. It also decreases fatigue and depression, and improves overall well-being and quality of life. The key is to start with low-impact activities, gradually increase intensity and duration over time, and listen to the body's signals to avoid overexertion.
Here's how exercise benefits patients with fibromyalgia:
Pain reduction: Exercise releases endorphins, natural pain-relieving chemicals in the brain. It also strengthens muscles and improves joint flexibility, leading to decreased pain intensity and frequency.
Improved physical fitness: Regular exercise increases cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and endurance, allowing patients to tolerate activity better and perform daily tasks with less fatigue.
Enhanced sleep quality: Exercise can regulate sleep patterns, promoting deeper sleep and reducing nighttime pain, leading to improved energy levels and mood throughout the day.
Reduced fatigue and depression: Exercise triggers the release of mood-boosting neurotransmitters, like serotonin and dopamine, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression and fatigue commonly associated with fibromyalgia.
Improved overall well-being: Regular physical activity enhances self-efficacy, reduces stress, and promotes social interaction, contributing to a better quality of life for patients with fibromyalgia.
Therefore, a program of regular mild to moderate exercise is the most effective recommendation for patients with fibromyalgia to address activity intolerance and improve their overall well-being.
Rationale for other choices:

Choice B: While daily meditation and guided imagery can be helpful for managing stress and improving sleep in fibromyalgia, they are not as effective as exercise in directly addressing activity intolerance and improving physical fitness and function.

Choice C: Referral to physical therapy for an assistive device may be necessary in some cases with severe limitations, but it is not the first-line intervention for addressing activity intolerance in most patients with fibromyalgia. Exercise should be the initial focus, with assistive devices considered later if needed.

Choice D: NSAID medications can offer temporary pain relief, but they do not address the underlying cause of activity intolerance in fibromyalgia and can have side effects like gastritis and kidney problems. NSAIDs should be used cautiously and only as a complementary therapy alongside exercise in managing fibromyalgia symptoms.
Remember, a tailored exercise program, starting with low-impact activities and gradually increasing intensity, is the key to managing activity intolerance and improving function in patients with fibromyalgia.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale:
Candidiasis, also known as thrush, is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans. It commonly affects the mouth, causing white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or tonsils.
Individuals with AIDS often have weakened immune systems due to a decreased CD4 T-cell count. This makes them more susceptible to opportunistic infections like candidiasis.
The fungal infection can spread to the esophagus, causing difficulty swallowing, or even to the bloodstream, leading to more serious complications.
Choice B rationale:
Xerostomia refers to dry mouth. It can be caused by various factors, including medications, salivary gland dysfunction, or radiation therapy. While it can occur in individuals with AIDS, it's not directly linked to a decreased CD4 T-cell count.
Choice C rationale:
Halitosis, or bad breath, can have multiple causes, including poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or digestive issues. It's not specifically associated with AIDS or a decreased CD4 T-cell count.
Choice D rationale:
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, often caused by plaque buildup. It's a common condition, but it's not directly linked to AIDS or a decreased CD4 T-cell count.

A. Loosen the patient's clothing B. Ease the patient to the floor if standing C. Restrain the patient D. Protect the patient's mouth with a padded tongue blade E. Provide privacy

Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale:
Loosening the patient's clothing around the neck and chest promotes easier breathing during the seizure. It also prevents potential injury from constrictive clothing that could restrict movement or circulation.
Choice B rationale:
Easing the patient to the floor if they are standing helps to prevent falls and injuries that could occur due to loss of consciousness and muscle control during the seizure. It's crucial to guide the patient gently to the floor to avoid abrupt movements that could trigger or worsen the seizure.
Choice C rationale:
Restraining the patient during a seizure is not recommended as it can cause harm. Attempting to restrain a patient's movements during a seizure can lead to muscle strains, joint injuries, or even fractures. It can also increase anxiety and agitation, potentially prolonging the seizure.
Choice D rationale:
Protecting the patient's mouth with a padded tongue blade is not necessary and can even be dangerous. It was once a common practice, but it's now discouraged as it can cause oral injuries, obstruct the airway, or induce vomiting.

Choice E rationale:
Providing privacy helps to protect the patient's dignity and reduce any potential embarrassment during the seizure. It also creates a calmer and less stimulating environment, which can be beneficial in managing the seizure.

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When planning care for a patient diagnosed with fibromyalgia, the nurse addresses the potential problem of activity intolerance. What should the nurse recommend to the patient to most effectively address this problem?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse in a clinic is assessing a client who has AIDS and a significantly decreased CD4 T-cell count. The nurse should recognize that the client is at risk for developing which of the following infectious oral conditions?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The client tells the nurse, "I am about to have a seizure." Which of the actions should the nurse implement? (Select all that apply)

Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]

Explanation

A mother with a diagnosis of AIDS states that she has been caring for her baby even though she has not been feeling well. What important information should the nurse determine?

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A nurse is completing a focused assessment addressing a client's immune function. What should the nurse prioritize in the physical assessment?

A client with a history of seizures is being admitted to the emergency room after experiencing a partial seizure. Which question would be most appropriate for the nurse to ask the client?

A nurse is caring for a client who requests prescription pain medication. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?

A nurse is discussing gout with a patient who is concerned about developing the disorder. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as risk factors for this disease? Select all that applies.

A nurse is caring for a patient with rheumatoid arthritis. The patient is prescribed hydroxychloroquine to slow the progression of the disease. Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse monitor for this patient?

The nurse is planning education for a patient diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Which risk factors should the nurse include in the teaching plan? (Select all that apply)