Chapter 39-40

The nurse observes a client with late-stage Alzheimer disease eat breakfast. Afterward the client states, "I am hungry and want breakfast." What is the nurse's best response? a. "I see you are still hungry. I will get you some toast." b. "You ate your breakfast 30 minutes ago." c. "It appears you are confused this morning." d. "Your family will be here soon. Let's get you dressed."

ANS: A Use of validation therapy with clients who have late-stage Alzheimer disease involves acknowledgment of the client's feelings and concerns. This technique has proved more effective in later stages of the disease because reality orientation only increases agitation. The other statements do not validate the client's concerns.

A nurse teaches assistive personnel (AP) about how to care for a client with Parkinson disease. Which statement would the nurse include as part of this teaching? a. "Allow the client to be as independent as possible with activities." b. "Assist the client with frequent and meticulous oral care." c. "Assess the client's ability to eat and swallow before each meal." d. "Schedule appointments early in the morning to ensure rest in the afternoon."

ANS: A Clients with Parkinson disease do not move as quickly and can have functional problems. The client would be encouraged to be as independent as possible and provided time to perform activities without rushing. Although oral care is important for all clients, instructing the UAP to provide frequent and meticulous oral is not a priority for this client. This statement would be a priority if the client was immune-compromised or NPO. The nurse would assess the client's ability to eat and swallow; this would not be delegated. Appointments and activities would not be scheduled early in the morning because this may cause the client to be rushed and discourage the client from wanting to participate in activities of daily living.

A nurse obtains a focused health history for a client who is suspected of having bacterial meningitis. Which question would the nurse ask? a. "Do you live in a crowded residence?" b. "When was your last tetanus vaccination?" c. "Have you had any viral infections recently?" d. "Have you traveled out of the country in the last month?"

ANS: A Bacterial meningitis tends to occur in multiple outbreaks. It is most likely to occur in areas of high-density population, such as college dormitories, prisons, and military barracks. A tetanus vaccination would not place the client at increased risk for meningitis or protect the client from meningitis. A viral infection would not lead to bacterial meningitis but could lead to viral meningitis. Simply knowing if the client traveled out of the country does not provide enough information.

A client who has multiple sclerosis reports increased severe muscle spasticity and tremors. What nursing action is most appropriate to manage this client's concern? a. Request a prescription for an antispasmodic drug such as baclofen. b. Prepare the client for deep brain stimulation surgery. c. Refer the client to a massage therapist to relax the muscles. d. Consult with the occupational therapist for self-care assistance.

ANS: A Clients who have multiple sclerosis often have muscle spasticity which may be reduced by drug therapy, such as baclofen. While massage and assistance with self-care may be helpful, these interventions are not the most effective and therefore not the most appropriate in managing muscle spasticity. If drug therapy and other interventions do not help reduce muscle spasms, some client are candidates for deep brain stimulation as a last resort.

The nurse is teaching a family caregiver about how best to communicate with the client who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer disease. Which statement by the caregiver indicates a need for further teaching? a. "I will avoid communicating with the client to prevent agitation." b. "I should use simple, short sentences and one-step instructions." c. "I can try to use gestures or pictures to communicate with the client." d. "I will limit the number of choices I provide for the client."

ANS: A Communication with the client is important to provide cognitive stimulation. Using short simple sentences, using gestures and pictures, and limiting choices provided for the client will help promote communication.

The nurse is caring for a 60-year-old female client who sustained a thoracic spinal cord injury 10 years ago. For which potential complication will the nurse assess during this client's care? a. Fracture b. Malabsorption c. Delirium d. Anemia

ANS: A Older adults who have impaired mobility due to a health problem or injury are at risk for complications of immobility, such as osteoporosis (bone loss) which leads to fracture. Being an older woman increases that risk due to loss of estrogen to protect bone loss. The other choices are not problems of immobility. Delirium is possible but is more common in clients over 70 years of age.

A nurse assesses a client who is recovering from an open anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. Which complication would alert the nurse to urgently communicate with the primary health care provider? a. Auscultated stridor b. Weak pedal pulses c. Difficulty swallowing d. Inability to shrug shoulders

ANS: A Postoperative swelling can narrow the trachea, cause a partial airway obstruction, and manifest as stridor. The client may also have trouble swallowing, but maintaining an airway takes priority. Weak pedal pulses and an inability to shrug the shoulders are not complications of this surgery.

After teaching a client with a high thoracic spinal cord injury, the nurse assesses the client's understanding. Which statement by the client indicates a correct understanding of how to prevent respiratory problems at home? a. "I'll use my incentive spirometer every 2 hours while I'm awake." b. "I'll drink thinned fluids to prevent choking." c. "I'll take cough medicine to prevent excessive coughing." d. "I'll position myself on my right side so I don't aspirate."

ANS: A The client with a cervical or high thoracic spinal cord injury typically has weak intercostal muscles and is at higher risk for developing atelectasis and stasis pneumonia. Using an incentive spirometer every 2 hours helps the client expand the lungs more fully and helps prevent atelectasis and other respiratory problems. Clients should drink fluids that they can tolerate; usually thick fluids are easier to tolerate. The client would be encouraged to cough and clear secretions, and placed in high-Fowler position to prevent aspiration.

A nurse assesses a client who is recovering from an open traditional anterior cervical fusion. Which assessment findings would alert the nursing to a complication from this procedure? (Select all that apply.) a. Difficulty swallowing b. Hoarse voice c. Constipation d. Bradycardia e. Hypertension

ANS: A, B Complications of the open traditional anterior cervical discectomy and fusion include dysphagia and hoarseness. Constipation, bradycardia, and hypertension are not complications of this procedure.

The nurse assesses clients on a medical-surgical unit. Which clients would the nurse identify as at risk for secondary seizures? (Select all that apply.) a. A 26-year-old woman with a left temporal brain tumor b. A 38-year-old male client in an alcohol withdrawal program c. A 42-year-old football player with a traumatic brain injury d. A 66-year-old female client with multiple sclerosis e. A 72-year-old man with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

ANS: A, B, C Clients at risk for secondary seizures include those with a brain lesion from a tumor or trauma, and those who are experiencing a metabolic disorder, acute alcohol withdrawal, electrolyte disturbances, and high fever. Clients with a history of stroke, heart disease, and substance abuse are also at risk. Clients with multiple sclerosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are not at risk for secondary seizures.

The nurse assesses a client who has meningitis. Which sign(s) and symptom(s) would the nurse anticipate? (Select all that apply.) a. Photophobia b. Decreased level of consciousness c. Severe headache d. Fever and chills e. Bradycardia

ANS: A, B, C, D All of the choices except for bradycardia are key features of meningitis. Tachycardia is more likely than bradycardia due to the infectious process and fever.

The nurse is taking a history on an older adult. Which factors would the nurse assess as potential risks for low back pain? (Select all that apply.) a. Scoliosis b. Spinal stenosis c. Hypocalcemia d. Osteoporosis e. Osteoarthritis

ANS: A, B, C, D, E All of these factors place the client at risk for low back pain due to changes in spinal alignment, loss of bone, or joint degeneration. Bone loss worsens if serum calcium levels are below normal.

The nurse assesses a client who is experiencing a common migraine without an aura. Which assessment finding(s) would the nurse expect? (Select all that apply.) a. Headache lasting up to 72 hours b. Unilateral and pulsating headache c. Abrupt loss of consciousness d. Acute confusion e. Pain worsens with physical activities f. Photophobia

ANS: A, B, E, F A common migraine with an aura is usually accompanied by photophobia, phonophobia, unilateral and pulsating pain, and nausea and/or vomiting. These migraines usually last 4 to 72 hours and are aggravated by physical activity. Loss of consciousness and acute confusion are not associated with a common migraine without an aura.

The nurse assesses a client who has Parkinson disease. Which signs and symptoms would the nurse recognize as a key feature of this disease? (Select all that apply.) a. Flexed trunk b. Long, extended steps c. Slow movements d. Uncontrolled drooling e. Tachycardia

ANS: A, C, D Key features of Parkinson disease include a flexed trunk, slow and hesitant steps, bradykinesia, and uncontrolled drooling. Tachycardia is not a key feature of this disease.

A nurse assesses a client who experienced a spinal cord injury at the T5 level 12 hours ago. Which assessment findings would the nurse correlate with neurogenic shock? (Select all that apply.) a. Heart rate of 34 beats/min b. Blood pressure of 185/65 mm Hg c. Urine output less than 30 mL/hr d. Decreased level of consciousness e. Increased oxygen saturation

ANS: A, C, D Neurogenic shock with acute spinal cord injury manifests with decreased oxygen saturation, symptomatic bradycardia, decreased level of consciousness, decreased urine output, and hypotension.

A nurse teaches the spouse of a client who has Alzheimer disease. Which statements should the nurse include in this teaching related to caregiver stress reduction? (Select all that apply.) a. "Establish advanced directives early." b. "Trust that family and friends will help." c. "Set aside time each day to be away from the client." d. "Use discipline to correct inappropriate behaviors." e. "Seek respite care periodically for longer periods of time."

ANS: A, C, D To reduce caregiver stress, the spouse should be encouraged to establish advanced directives early, set aside time each day for rest or recreation away from the client, seek respite care periodically for longer periods of time, use humor with the client, and explore alternative care settings and resources. Family and friends may not be available to help. A structured environment will assist the client with AD, but discipline will not correct inappropriate behaviors and not reduce caregiver stress.

A nurse assesses a client who recently experienced a traumatic spinal cord injury. Which assessment data would the nurse obtain to assess the client's coping strategies? (Select all that apply.) a. Spiritual beliefs b. Level of pain c. Family support d. Level of independence e. Annual income f. Previous coping strategies

ANS: A, C, D, F Information about the client's preinjury psychosocial status, usual methods of coping with illness, difficult situations, and disappointments would be obtained. Determine the client's level of independence or dependence and his or her comfort level in discussing feelings and emotions with family members or close friends. Clients who are emotionally secure and have a positive self-image, a supportive family, and financial and job security often adapt to their injury. Information about the client's spiritual and religious beliefs or cultural background also assists the nurse in developing the plan of care. The other options do not supply as much information about coping.

A nurse promotes the prevention of lower back pain by teaching clients at a community center. Which statement(s) would the nurse include in this education? (Select all that apply.) a. "Participate in an exercise program to strengthen back muscles." b. "Purchase a mattress that allows you to adjust the firmness." c. "Wear flat instead of high-heeled shoes to work each day." d. "Keep your weight within 20% of your ideal body weight." e. "Avoid prolonged standing or sitting, including driving."

ANS: A, C, E Exercise can strengthen back muscles, reducing the incidence of low back pain. Women should avoid wearing high-heeled shoes because they cause misalignment of the back. Prolonged standing and sitting should also be avoided. The other options will not prevent low back pain.

The nurse is caring for a client who has Alzheimer disease. The client's wife states, "I am having trouble managing his behaviors at home." Which questions would the nurse ask to assess potential causes of the client's behavior problems? (Select all that apply.) a. "Does your husband bathe and dress himself independently?" b. "Do you weigh your husband each morning around the same time?" c. "Does his behavior become worse around large crowds?" d. "Does your husband eat healthy foods including fruits and vegetables?" e. "Do you have a clock and calendar in the bedroom and kitchen?"

ANS: A, C, E To minimize behavior problems, the nurse would encourage the patient to be as independent as possible with ADLs, minimize excessive simulation, and assist the patient to remain orientated. The nurse would assess these activities by asking if the patient is independent with bathing and dressing, if behavior worsens around crowds, and if a clock and single-date calendar are readily available. Diet and weight are not related to the management of behavior problems for a patient who has Alzheimer disease.

A nurse cares for a client who is experiencing status epilepticus. Which prescribed medication would the nurse anticipate to prepare for administration? a. Atenolol b. Lorazepam c. Phenytoin d. Lisinopril

ANS: B Initially, intravenous lorazepam or diazepam is administered to stop motor movements. This is followed by the administration of phenytoin. Atenolol, a beta blocker, and lisinopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, are not administered for seizure activity. These drugs are typically administered for hypertension and heart failure.

The nurse is caring for a client in late-stage Alzheimer disease. Which assessment finding(s) will the nurse anticipate? (Select all that apply.) a. Immobile b. Has difficulty driving c. Wandering d. ADL dependent e. Incontinent f. Possible seizures

ANS: A, D, E, F The client in late-stage Alzheimer disease is totally bedridden and immobile, and therefore, cannot ambulate to wander or drive. The client is incontinent and ADL dependent.

The nurse plans care for a client with epilepsy who is admitted to the hospital. Which interventions would the nurse include in this client's plan of care? (Select all that apply.) a. Have suction equipment with an airway at the bedside. b. Place a padded tongue blade at the bedside. c. Permit only clear oral fluids. d. Have oxygen administration set at the bedside. e. Maintain the client on strict bedrest. f. Ensure that the client has IV access.

ANS: A, D, F Oxygen and suctioning equipment with an airway must be readily available. If the client does not have an IV access, insert a saline lock, especially for those clients who are at significant risk for generalized tonic-clonic seizures. The saline lock provides ready access if IV drug therapy must be given to stop the seizure. Padded tongue blades may pose a danger to the client or nurse during a seizure and would not be used. Dietary restrictions and strict bedrest are not interventions associated with epilepsy.

A nurse assesses cerebrospinal fluid leaking onto a client's surgical dressing. What actions would the nurse take? (Select all that apply.) a. Place the client in a flat position. b. Monitor vital signs for hypotension. c. Utilize a bedside commode. d. Assess for abdominal distension. e. Report the leak to the surgeon.

ANS: A, E If cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is leaking from a surgical wound, the nurse would place the client in a flat position and contact the surgeon for repair of the leak. Hypotension and abdominal distension are not complications of CSF leakage.

A client who had a complete spinal cord injury at level L5-S1 is admitted with a sacral pressure injury. What other assessment finding will the nurse anticipate for this client? a. Quadriplegia b. Flaccid bowel c. Spastic bladder d. Tetraparesis

ANS: B A low-level complete spinal cord injury (SCI) is a lower motor neuron injury because the reflect arc is damaged. Therefore, the client would be expected to have paraplegia and a flaccid bowel and bladder. Quadriplegia and tetraparesis are seen in clients with cervical or high thoracic SCIs.

A nurse assesses the health history of a client who is prescribed ziconotide for chronic low back pain. Which assessment question would the nurse ask? a. "Are you taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug?" b. "Have you been diagnosed with a mental health problem?" c. "Are you able to swallow oral medications?" d. "Do you smoke cigarettes or any illegal drugs?"

ANS: B Clients who have a severe mental health or behavioral health problem would not take ziconotide because the drug can cause psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations. The other questions do not identify a contraindication for this medication.

A nurse teaches a client who is recovering from an open traditional cervical spinal fusion. Which statement would the nurse include in this client's postoperative instructions? a. "Only lift items that are 10 lb (4.5 kg) or less." b. "Wear your neck brace whenever you are out of bed." c. "You must remain in bed for 3 weeks after surgery." d. "You will be prescribed medications to prevent graft rejection."

ANS: B Clients who undergo spinal fusion are fitted with a neck brace that they must wear throughout the healing process whenever they are out of bed. The client should not lift anything more than 10 lb (4.5 kg). The client does not need to remain in bed. Medications for rejection prevention are not necessary for this procedure.

A nurse assesses a client with multiple sclerosis after administering prescribed fingolimod. For which common side effect would the nurse monitor? a. Peripheral edema b. Facial flushing c. Tachycardia d. Fever

ANS: B Fingolimod is an oral immunomodulator that has two common side effects—facial flushing and GI disturbance, such as diarrhea. Peripheral edema, tachycardia, and fever are not common side effects of this drug.

A client is scheduled for a percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching? a. "I should have a lot less pain after surgery." b. "I'll be in the hospital for 2 to 3 days." c. "I should not have any major surgical complications." d. "I could possibly get an infection after surgery."

ANS: B Percutaneous endoscopic discectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that requires a shorter hospital stay (23 hours or less) when compared to open traditional surgery. The risk for surgical complications is very low and clients experience less far pain from this procedure. However, due to interrupting skin integrity, infection may occur at the surgical site.

A nurse is teaching a client who experiences migraine headaches and is prescribed propranolol. Which statement would the nurse include in this client's teaching? a. "Take this drug only when you have symptoms indicating the onset of a migraine headache." b. "Take this drug as prescribed, even when feeling well, to prevent vascular changes associated with migraine headaches." c. "This drug will relieve the pain during the aura phase soon after a headache has started." d. "This drug will have no effect on your heart rate or blood pressure because you are taking it for migraines."

ANS: B Propranolol is a beta-adrenergic blocker which is prescribed as prophylactic treatment to prevent the vascular changes that initiate migraine headaches. Heart rate and blood pressure will also be affected, and the client would monitor these side effects. The other responses do not discuss appropriate uses of this drug.

The nurse cares for a client with middle-stage (moderate) Alzheimer disease. The client's caregiver states, "She is always wandering off. What can I do to manage this restless behavior?" What is the nurse's best response? a. "This is a sign of fatigue. The client would benefit from a daily nap." b. "Engage the client in scheduled activities throughout the day." c. "It sounds like this is difficult for you. I will consult the social worker." d. "The provider can prescribe a mild sedative for restlessness."

ANS: B Several strategies may be used to cope with restlessness and wandering. One strategy is to engage the client in structured activities. Another is to take the client for frequent walks. Daily naps and a mild sedative will not be as effective in the management of restless behavior. Consulting the social worker does not address the caregiver's concern.

The nurse obtains a health history on a client prior to administering prescribed sumatriptan succinate for migraine headaches. Which condition would alert the nurse to withhold the medication and contact the primary health care provider? a. Bronchial asthma b. Heart disease c. Diabetes mellitus d. Rheumatoid arthritis

ANS: B Sumatriptan succinate effectively reduces pain and other associated symptoms of migraine headache by binding to serotonin receptors and triggering cranial vasoconstriction. Vasoconstrictive effects are not confined to the cranium and can cause coronary vasospasm in clients with heart disease, hypertension, or Prinzmetal angina. The other conditions would not affect the client's treatment.

A client with early-stage Alzheimer disease is admitted to the hospital with chest pain. Which nursing action is most appropriate to manage this client's dementia? a. Provide animal-assisted therapy as needed. b. Ensure a structured and consistent environment. c. Assist the client with activities of daily living (ADLs). d. Use validation therapy when communicating with the client.

ANS: B The client who has early Alzheimer disease (AD) does not require assistance with ADLs or validation therapy. While animal-assisted therapy may be helpful, some health care agencies do not allow this intervention. Therefore, the most appropriate action is to provide a structured and consistent environment while the client is hospitalized to prevent worsening of the client's symptoms.

A nurse plans care for a client with a halo fixator. Which interventions would the nurse include in this client's plan of care? (Select all that apply.) a. Remove the vest for client bathing. b. Assess the pin sites for signs of infection. c. Loosen the pins when sleeping. d. Decrease the patient's oral fluid intake. e. Assess the chest and back for skin breakdown.

ANS: B, E The nurse would assess the pin sites for signs of infection or loose pins. The nurse would also assess the client's chest and back for skin breakdown from the halo vest. The vest is not removed for bathing and the pins are not intentionally loosened.

The nurse is teaching a group of college students about the importance of preventing meningitis. Which health promotion activity is the most appropriate for preventing this disease? a. Eating a well-balanced diet that is high in protein b. Having an annual physical examination c. Obtaining the recommended meningitis vaccination and boosters d. Identifying signs and symptoms for early treatment

ANS: C CDC-recommended vaccinations and boosters are available for prevention of a number of diseases including meningococcal meningitis. While the other activities are appropriate for general health promotion, they are not specific to meningitis prevention.

The nurse teaches assistive personnel (AP) about how to care for a client with early-stage Alzheimer disease. Which statement would the nurse include? a. "If she is confused, play along and pretend that everything is okay." b. "Remove the clock from her room so that she doesn't get confused." c. "Reorient the client to the day, time, and environment with each contact." d. "Use validation therapy to recognize and acknowledge the client's concerns."

ANS: C Clients who have early-stage Alzheimer disease would be reoriented frequently to person, place, and time. The AP would reorient the client and not encourage the client's delusions. The room would have a clock and white board with the current date written on it. Validation therapy is used with late-stage Alzheimer disease.

A client with multiple sclerosis is being discharged from rehabilitation. Which statement would the nurse include in the client's discharge teaching? a. "Be sure that you use a wheelchair when you go out in public." b. "Wear an undergarment brief at all times in case of incontinence." c. "Avoid overexertion, stress, and extreme temperature if possible." d. "Avoid having sexual intercourse to conserve energy."

ANS: C Clients who have multiple sclerosis have chronic fatigue and are prone to disease exacerbation (flare-up) is they overexert, are stressed, or are exposed to extreme temperature and humidity. They should not wear briefs unless they have actual problems with continence and should not use a wheelchair if they are able to ambulate with a cane or walker. Maintaining independence and self-esteem is important, so participating in sexual activities is encouraged.

The nurse is teaching the daughter of a client who has middle-stage Alzheimer disease. The daughter asks, "Will the sertraline my mother is taking improve her dementia?" How would the nurse respond about the purpose of the drug? a. "It will allow your mother to live independently for several more years." b. "It is used to halt the advancement of Alzheimer disease but will not cure it." c. "It will not improve her dementia but can help control emotional responses." d. "It is used to improve short-term memory but will not improve problem solving."

ANS: C Drug therapy is not effective for treating dementia or halting the advancement of Alzheimer disease. However, certain psychoactive drugs may help suppress emotional disturbances and manage depression, psychoses, or anxiety. Drug therapy will not allow the client with middle-stage dementia to safely live independently.

The nurse assesses a client who has a history of migraines. Which symptom would the nurse identify as an early sign of a migraine with aura? a. Vertigo b. Lethargy c. Visual disturbances d. Numbness of the tongue

ANS: C Early warning of impending migraine with aura usually consists of visual changes, flashing lights, or diplopia. The other symptoms are not associated with an impending migraine with aura.

The nurse is preparing to teach a client recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis about taking glatiramer acetate. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching? a. "I will rotate injection sites to prevent skin irritation." b. "I need to avoid large crowds and people with infection." c. "I should report any flulike symptoms to my primary health care provider." d. "I will report any signs of infection to my primary health care provider."

ANS: C Glatiramer is given by subcutaneous injection. The first dose is administered under medical supervision, but the nurse teaches the client how to self-administer the medication after the initial dose, reminding the client about the need to rotate injection sites. Like other immunomodulators, this drug can make the client susceptible to infection. However, flulike symptoms occur more commonly with interferons rather than glatiramer.

A nurse is caring for a client with paraplegia who is scheduled to participate in a rehabilitation program. The client states, "I don't understand the need for rehabilitation; the paralysis will not go away and it will not get better." How would the nurse respond? a. "If you don't want to participate in the rehabilitation program, I'll let your primary health care provider know." b. "Rehabilitation programs have helped many patients with your injury. You should give it a chance." c. "The rehabilitation program will teach you how to maintain the functional ability you have and prevent further disability." d. "When new discoveries are made regarding paraplegia, people in rehabilitation programs will benefit first."

ANS: C Participation in rehabilitation programs has many purposes, including prevention of disability, maintenance of functional ability, and restoration of function. The other responses do not meet this client's needs.

A nurse assesses a client with a spinal cord injury at level T5. The client's blood pressure is 184/95 mm Hg, and the client presents with a flushed face and blurred vision. After raising the head of the bed, what action would the nurse take next? a. Initiate oxygen via a nasal cannula. b. Recheck the client's blood pressure. c. Palpate the bladder for distention. d. Administer a prescribed beta blocker.

ANS: C The client is manifesting symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia. Common causes include bladder distention, tight clothing, increased room temperature, and fecal impaction. If persistent, the client could experience neurologic injury such as s stroke. The other actions are not appropriate for this complication.

The nurse witnesses a client begin to experience a tonic-clonic seizure and loss of consciousness. What action would the nurse take first? a. Start fluids via a large-bore catheter. b. Administer IV push diazepam. c. Turn the client's head to the side. d. Prepare to intubate the client.

ANS: C The nurse would turn the client's head to the side to prevent aspiration and allow drainage of secretions. Anticonvulsants are administered on a routine basis if a seizure is sustained. If the seizure is sustained (status epilepticus), the client must be intubated and would be administered oxygen, 0.9% sodium chloride, and IV push lorazepam or diazepam.

A nurse cares for a client with a spinal cord injury. With which interprofessional health team member would the nurse collaborate to assist the client with activities of daily living? a. Social worker b. Physical therapist c. Occupational therapist d. Case manager

ANS: C The occupational therapist instructs the patient in the correct use of all adaptive equipment. In collaboration with the therapist, the nurse instructs family members or the caregiver about transfer skills, feeding, bathing, dressing, positioning, and skin care. The other team members are consulted to assist the client with other issues.

A nurse assesses a client who is recovering from the implantation of a vagal nerve-stimulation device. For which signs and symptoms would the nurse assess as common complications of this procedure? (Select all that apply.) a. Bleeding b. Infection c. Hoarseness d. Dysphagia e. Seizures

ANS: C, D Complications of surgery to implant a vagal nerve-stimulation device include hoarseness (most common), dyspnea, neck pain, and dysphagia. The device is tunneled under the skin with an electrode connected to the vagus nerve to control simple or complex partial seizures. Bleeding is not a common complication of this procedure, and infection would not occur during the recovery period.

A nurse assesses a client who is recovering from an open traditional lumbar laminectomy with fusion. Which complications would the nurse report to the primary health care provider? (Select all that apply.) a. Surgical discomfort b. Redness and itching at the incision site c. Incisional bulging d. Clear drainage on the dressing e. Sudden and severe headache

ANS: C, D, E Bulging at the incision site or clear fluid on the dressing after open back surgery strongly suggests a cerebrospinal fluid leak, which constitutes an emergency. Loss of cerebrospinal fluid may cause a sudden and severe headache. Pain, redness, and itching at the site are normal.

After teaching a client who is diagnosed with new-onset epilepsy and prescribed phenytoin, the nurse assesses the client's understanding. Which statement by the client indicates a correct understanding of the teaching? a. "To prevent complications, I will drink at least 2 L of water daily." b. "This medication will stop me from getting an aura before a seizure." c. "I will not drive a motor vehicle while taking this medication." d. "Even when my seizures stop, I will continue to take this drug."

ANS: D Discontinuing antiepileptic drugs can lead to the recurrence of seizures or status epilepticus. The client does not need to drink more water and can drive while taking this medication. The drug will not stop an aura before a seizure.

After teaching a male client with a spinal cord injury at the T4 level, the nurse assesses the his understanding. Which client statements indicate a correct understanding of the teaching related to sexual effects of his injury? (Select all that apply.) a. "I will explore other ways besides intercourse to please my partner." b. "I will not be able to have an erection because of my injury." c. "Ejaculation may not be as predictable as before." d. "I may urinate with ejaculation but this will not cause infection." e. "I should be able to have an erection with stimulation."

ANS: C, D, E Men with injuries above T6 often are able to have erections by stimulating reflex activity. For example, stroking the penis will cause an erection. Ejaculation is less predictable and may be mixed with urine. However, urine is sterile, so the client's partner will not get an infection.

A nurse assesses a client with paraplegia from a spinal cord injury and notes reddened areas over the client's hips and sacrum. What actions would the nurse take? (Select all that apply.) a. Apply a barrier cream to protect the skin from excoriation. b. Perform range-of-motion (ROM) exercises for the hip joint. c. Reposition the client off of the reddened areas. d. Get the client out of bed and into a chair several times a day. e. Apply a pressure-reducing mattress.

ANS: C, E Appropriate interventions to relieve pressure on the reddened areas include frequent repositioning, using a pressure-reducing mattress, and having the client sit in a chair to remove pressure from the hips and sacrum. Correct sitting position would allow the pressure to be on both ischial tuberosities. ROM exercises are used to prevent contractures.

The nurse is collaborating with the occupational therapist to assist a client with a complete cervical spinal cord injury to transfer from the bed to the wheelchair. What ambulatory aid would be most appropriate for the client to meet this outcome? a. Rolling walker b. Quad cane c. Adjustable crutches d. Sliding board

ANS: D A client who has a complete cervical spinal cord injury is unable to use any extremity except for parts of the hands and possibly the lower arms. Therefore, the client would be unable to use any of these ambulatory aids except for a sliding board, also known as a slider, which provides a "bridge" between the bed and a chair. The client uses his or her arms in a locked position to support the body while moving slowly across the board.

A client diagnosed with Parkinson disease will be starting ropinirole for symptom control. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching? a. "This drug should help decrease my tremors and help me move better." b. "I need to change positions slowly to prevent dizziness or falls." c. "I should take the drug at the same time each day for the best effect." d. "I know the drug will probably make help me prevent constipation."

ANS: D Although ropinirole is a dopamine agonist and mimics dopamine to promote movement, it does not work to prevent constipation. This class of drugs can cause orthostatic hypotension and should be taken at the same time every day.

After teaching the wife of a client who has Parkinson disease, the nurse assesses the wife's understanding. Which statement by the client's wife indicates that she correctly understands changes associated with this disease? a. "His masklike face makes it difficult to communicate, so I will use a white board." b. "He should not socialize outside of the house due to uncontrollable drooling." c. "This disease is associated with anxiety causing increased perspiration." d. "He may have trouble chewing, so I will offer bite-sized portions."

ANS: D Because chewing and swallowing can be problematic, small frequent meals and a supplement are better for meeting the client's nutritional needs. A masklike face and drooling are common in clients with Parkinson disease. The client would be encouraged to continue to socialize and communicate as normally as possible. The wife should understand that the client's masklike face can be misinterpreted and additional time may be needed for the client to communicate with her or others. Excessive perspiration is also common in clients with Parkinson disease and is associated with the autonomic nervous system's response.

The nurse prepares to discharge a client with early to moderate Alzheimer disease. Which statement to maintain client safety would the nurse include in the discharge teaching for the caregiver? a. "Provide periods of exercise and rest for the client." b. "Place a padded throw rug at the bedside." c. "Provide a highly stimulating environment." d. "Install safety locks on all outside doors."

ANS: D Clients with early to moderate Alzheimer disease have a tendency to wander, especially at night. If possible, alarms would be installed on all outside doors to alert family members if the client leaves. At a minimum, all outside doors should have safety locks installed to prevent the client from going outdoors unsupervised. The client would be allowed to exercise within his or her limits, but this action does not ensure his or her safety. Throw rugs are a slip and fall hazard and would be removed. A highly stimulating environment would likely increase the client's confusion.

The primary health care provider prescribes donepezil for a client diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer disease. What teaching about this drug will the nurse provide for the client's family caregiver? a. "Monitor the client's temperature because the drug can cause a low grade fever." b. "Observe the client for nausea and vomiting to determine drug tolerance." c. "Donepezil will prevent the client's dementia from progressing as usual." d. "Report any client dizziness or falls because the drug can cause bradycardia."

ANS: D Donepezil is a cholinesterase inhibitor that may temporarily slow cognitive decline for some clients but does not alter the course of the disease. The family caregiver would want to monitor the client's heart rate and report any incidence of dizziness or falls because the drug can cause bradycardia. It does not typically cause fever or nausea/vomiting.

The nurse plans care for a client with Parkinson disease. Which intervention would the nurse include in this client's plan of care? a. Restrain the client to prevent falling. b. Ensure that the client uses incentive spirometry. c. Teach the client pursed-lip breathing techniques. d. Keep the head of the bed at 30 degrees or greater.

ANS: D Elevation of the head of the bed will help prevent aspiration. The other options will not prevent aspiration, which is the greatest respiratory complication of Parkinson disease, nor do these interventions address any of the complications of Parkinson disease. Pursed-lip breathing increases exhalation of carbon dioxide; incentive spirometry expands the lungs. The client should not be restrained to prevent falls. Other less restrictive interventions should be used to maintain client safety.

A nurse assesses clients at a community center. Which client is at greatest risk for low back pain? a. A 24-year-old female who is 25 weeks pregnant. b. A 36-year-old male who uses ergonomic techniques. c. A 53-year-old female who uses a walker. d. A 65-year-old female with osteoarthritis.

ANS: D Osteoarthritis causes changes to support structures, increasing the client's risk for low back pain. The other clients are not at high risk.

The nurse assesses a client with a history of epilepsy who experiences stiffening of the muscles of the arms and legs, followed by an immediate loss of consciousness and jerking of all extremities. How would the nurse document this type of seizure? a. Atonic b. Myoclonic c. Absence d. Tonic-clonic

ANS: D Seizure activity that begins with stiffening of the arms and legs, followed by loss of consciousness and jerking of all extremities, is characteristic of a tonic-clonic seizure. An atonic seizure presents as a sudden loss of muscle tone followed by postictal confusion. A myoclonic seizure presents with a brief jerking or stiffening of extremities that may occur singly or in groups. Absence seizures present with automatisms, and the client is unaware of his or her environment.

The nurse initiates care for a client with a cervical spinal cord injury who arrives via emergency medical services. What action would the nurse take first? a. Assess level of consciousness. b. Obtain vital signs. c. Administer oxygen therapy. d. Evaluate respiratory status.

ANS: D The first priority for a client with a spinal cord injury is assessment of respiratory status and airway patency. Clients with cervical spine injuries are particularly prone to respiratory compromise due to interference with diaphragmatic innervation. The other actions would be performed after airway and breathing are assessed.

After teaching a client newly diagnosed with epilepsy, the nurse assesses the client's understanding. Which statement by the client indicates a need for additional teaching? a. "I will wear my medical alert bracelet at all times." b. "While taking my medications, I will not drink any alcoholic beverages." c. "I will tell my doctor about my prescription and over-the-counter medications." d. "If I am nauseated, I will not take my epilepsy medication."

ANS: D The nurse must emphasize that antiepileptic drugs must be taken even if the client is nauseated. Discontinuing the medication can predispose the client to seizure activity and status epilepticus. The client should not drink alcohol while taking seizure medications. The client should wear a medical alert bracelet and should make the primary health care provider aware of all drugs he or she is taking to prevent complications of polypharmacy.

A client continues to have persistent low back pain even after using a number of nonpharmacologic pain management strategies. Which prescribed drug would the nurse anticipate that the client might need to manage the pain? a. Oxycontin b. Gabapentin c. Lorazepam d. Tramadol

ANS: D When nonpharmacologic strategies, including physical therapy, are not effective in managing pain, current standards recommend a mild opioid such as tramadol or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Strong opioids such as oxycontin and benzodiazepines such as lorazepam are not considered best practice.

A nurse prepares to provide perineal care to a client with meningococcal meningitis. Which personal protective equipment would the nurse wear? (Select all that apply.) a. Particulate respirator b. Isolation gown c. Shoe covers d. Surgical mask e. Gloves

ANS: D, E Meningococcal meningitis is spread via saliva and droplets, and Droplet Precautions are necessary. Caregivers would wear a surgical mask when within 6 feet (1.8 m) of the client and would continue to use Standard Precautions, including gloves. A particulate respirator, an isolation gown, and shoe covers are not necessary for Droplet Precautions.