Pharmacology and the Nursing Process Test Bank Related

Review Pharmacology and the Nursing Process Test Bank related questions and content

While bathing an 82 y.o. man hospitalized with pneumonia, a nurse notes an ulcerated area on his penis. What action should the nurse take first?

  • A. Report the ulcer to the admitting care provider.
  • B. Teach the man about STD prevention.
  • C. Ask the man if he has a history of syphilis.
  • D. Clean the ulcer; reporting is not necessary because an STD is unlikely in a man this age.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct action is to report the ulcer to the admitting care provider first. This is essential because the ulcer could be a sign of an underlying infection or condition that needs immediate attention, especially in a hospitalized patient with pneumonia. Reporting the ulcer ensures prompt evaluation and appropriate treatment. The other options are incorrect because teaching about STD prevention and asking about syphilis assume the cause of the ulcer is related to a sexually transmitted infection, which may not be the case in this scenario. Additionally, cleaning the ulcer without proper assessment and diagnosis by a healthcare provider can lead to complications or delay in appropriate treatment.