While caring for a client after a small bowel resection, the nurse is informed that the client has a history of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). To reduce the risk of recurrence of the MRSA in the postoperative wound, which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?
Report any increase in the white blood cell count.
Instruct the family to adhere to contact precautions.
Change the surgical dressing readily when soiled.
Wear a face mask while performing wound care.
The Correct Answer is B
MRSA is a highly contagious bacteria that can easily spread from person to person through direct contact or contact with contaminated surfaces. By instructing the family to adhere to contact precautions, the nurse can help prevent the spread of MRSA to the client's postoperative wound. Contact precautions typically involve wearing gloves and a gown when in direct contact with the client or the client's immediate environment.
While reporting any increase in the white blood cell count, changing the surgical dressing when soiled, and wearing a face mask during wound care are all important aspects of postoperative care, they are not specifically targeted at preventing the recurrence of MRSA. Adhering to contact precautions is the most effective measure to prevent the spread of MRSA and protect the client from further infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A.While pain management is important, it is not the most critical intervention compared to monitoring for bleeding, which can be life-threatening.
B.Teaching the client how to use incentive spirometry is important for improving lung function and preventing complications like atelectasis. However, in the context of a pulmonary embolism (PE), the immediate priority is to monitor for signs of increased bleeding due to the anticoagulant or thrombolytic therapy often used to treat PE. This is crucial to prevent potentially life-threatening complications.
C.Confusion and restlessness could indicate hypoxia, which is important to monitor in a PE patient. However, the immediate risk of bleeding due to anticoagulation therapy takes precedence.
D.Patients with a pulmonary embolism are typically treated with thrombolytic or anticoagulant therapy to prevent further clot formation and to help dissolve the existing clot. Anticoagulants significantly increase the risk of bleeding, making it crucial to monitor for signs of increased bleeding as a priority in the plan of care.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
Nursing Interventions for Client Starting Clonazepam:
The following nursing interventions are appropriate for the client starting clonazepam 0.25 mg PO every 12 hours:
a. Screen for orthostatic hypotension:
Rationale:
- Clonazepam,like other benzodiazepines,can cause central nervous system (CNS) depression,which can lead to hypotension,particularly orthostatic hypotension.This occurs when blood pressure drops suddenly upon standing due to impaired autonomic nervous system regulation.
- Screening for orthostatic hypotension involves measuring the client's blood pressure and heart rate while lying down and then again after standing for 3 minutes.A significant drop in blood pressure (systolic decrease of 20 mmHg or diastolic decrease of 10 mmHg) or increase in heart rate (over 20 beats per minute) indicates orthostatic hypotension.
- Monitoring for orthostatic hypotension is crucial to prevent falls and other complications,especially in older adults or those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
b. Provide oral care at least twice a day:
Rationale:
- Clonazepam can cause dry mouth as a side effect,which can increase the risk of cavities,gum disease,and oral infections.
- Regular oral care helps to remove plaque and bacteria,promoting oral hygiene and preventing complications.Providing oral care at least twice a day,especially before bedtime and upon waking,is essential.
d. Assess mental status regularly:
Rationale:
- Clonazepam,while indicated for anxiety and insomnia,can paradoxically cause agitation,confusion,and even hallucinations in some individuals,particularly older adults or those with pre-existing psychiatric conditions.
- Regular assessment of mental status helps to identify any adverse behavioral or cognitive changes early on.This includes monitoring for anxiety,depression,suicidal ideation,confusion,disorientation,hallucinations,and changes in sleep patterns.
e. Assist the client to the bathroom:
Rationale:
- Clonazepam can cause drowsiness and dizziness,which can increase the risk of falls,especially in older adults or those with impaired mobility.
- Assisting the client to the bathroom and providing support during toileting activities helps to prevent falls and injuries.
Choices not included:
c. Monitor calcium levels:
- There is no specific indication for monitoring calcium levels with clonazepam use.
f. Have an opioid agonist at the bedside:
- Clonazepam is not indicated for pain management and does not interact significantly with opioid analgesics.Therefore,having an opioid agonist readily available is not a necessary intervention for clonazepam initiation.
Additional Considerations:
- Educate the client about the potential side effects of clonazepam,including drowsiness,dizziness,dry mouth,and cognitive changes.
- Advise the client to avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants while taking clonazepam,as this can increase the risk of sedation and respiratory depression.
- Instruct the client to take clonazepam exactly as prescribed and not to stop taking it abruptly,as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
- Monitor the client's sleep patterns and adjust the medication schedule if necessary.
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