While assessing a client with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), the nurse observes an absence of hair growth on the client's lower legs. Which assessment provides further data to support this finding?
Appearance of the skin on the client's legs.
Altered posture and balance during ambulation.
Presence of bilateral femoral pulses.
Signs of old and new ecchymosis.
The Correct Answer is A
A. The absence of hair growth on the lower legs is a potential sign of peripheral neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes. Assessing the skin for other signs of neuropathy, such as dryness, cracking, or calluses, would provide further evidence to support this diagnosis.
B. While this might indicate neuropathy, it's not as direct a correlation as the skin appearance.
C. Assessing pulses helps to evaluate peripheral circulation, but it doesn't directly address the issue of hair loss, which is more related to nerve damage.
D. Ecchymosis can indicate a bleeding disorder or trauma, not necessarily neuropathy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The surgical consent form is crucial for ensuring that the client is informed about the procedure and agrees to it. While it's critical for legal and ethical reasons, this issue can often be resolved relatively quickly by having the client sign the form or addressing it with the surgeon.
B. A pulse oximeter reading of 96% indicates that the client's oxygen saturation is within a generally acceptable range (normal is usually 95% to 100%). This reading suggests that the client's oxygen levels are adequate and typically would not require immediate action.
C. The absence of a preoperative chest x-ray report can be significant, especially if the client has underlying respiratory or cardiac conditions. However, the immediate need for action depends on the urgency and the reason the x-ray was ordered.
D. A serum potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L is critically low. The normal reference range is 3.5 to 5 mEq/L. Hypokalemia (low potassium) can lead to severe complications, including cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness, which can significantly impact the client's ability to safely undergo surgery. This condition requires immediate attention to correct the electrolyte imbalance before proceeding with the surgical procedure.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While this information might be helpful for general medication management, it is not directly related to the client's risk for osteoporosis.
B. The amount of calcium in the multivitamin is the most crucial follow-up information. For an older adult at risk for osteoporosis, ensuring adequate calcium intake is essential for bone health. Confirming the amount of calcium in the multivitamin helps ensure that the client is receiving enough of this critical nutrient to support bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.
C. This information is not relevant to the client's bone health or risk for osteoporosis.
D. While this information can influence the absorption of certain nutrients, it is not specifically related to calcium absorption or osteoporosis prevention.
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