Which intervention is appropriate to include in the plan of care for a patient with Parkinson's disease?
Soft diet with thin liquids
Assess for orthostatic hypotension
Check for exophthalmos
Limit fluids to prevent urinary incontinence
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: A soft diet with thin liquids may be recommended for patients with Parkinson's disease who have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), but it is not the most appropriate intervention for all patients. Dysphagia is common in Parkinson's disease due to impaired muscle movement, and a soft diet can help prevent choking and aspiration.
Choice B reason: Assessing for orthostatic hypotension is crucial in the care of patients with Parkinson's disease. Orthostatic hypotension is a common non-motor symptom where there is a significant drop in blood pressure upon standing. Normal blood pressure should not drop more than 20 mm Hg systolic or 10 mm Hg diastolic within 2 to 5 minutes of standing². This condition can increase the risk of falls, which is a significant concern in this population.
Choice C reason: Exophthalmos, the bulging of the eyes, is not associated with Parkinson's disease. It is typically related to thyroid eye disease, such as Graves' disease, and would not be a relevant assessment for a Parkinson's patient unless there is a known co-existing thyroid condition.
Choice D reason: Limiting fluids to prevent urinary incontinence is not an appropriate intervention for Parkinson's disease. Adequate hydration is essential, and urinary incontinence should be managed with other strategies, such as bladder training, scheduled toileting, and possibly medication, depending on the cause.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: A thyroidectomy, which is the surgical removal of the thyroid gland, directly leads to hypothyroidism because the body can no longer produce thyroid hormones. This client is at the greatest risk of developing hypothyroidism.
Choice B reason: While exposure to certain chemicals in pesticides can be a risk factor for thyroid dysfunction, it does not pose as immediate a risk as the removal of the thyroid gland itself.
Choice C reason: Thyroid nodules can be associated with thyroid dysfunction, but not all nodules result in hypothyroidism, and many are benign and asymptomatic.
Choice D reason: Vomiting secondary to influenza is not directly related to the development of hypothyroidism.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This response acknowledges the patient's feelings and invites further discussion, which can help the nurse understand the patient's concerns and provide appropriate support.
Choice B reason: Asking about specific challenges can be helpful, but it might be too direct for an initial response when the patient is expressing a general sense of being overwhelmed.
Choice C reason: While it's true that the healthcare team will provide support, this response may not address the patient's immediate emotional needs and concerns.
Choice D reason: This response might seem dismissive of the patient's concerns and does not acknowledge the difficulty of adjusting to a chronic illness like Parkinson's disease.
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