A client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed prednisone. What information should the LPN/LVN include when teaching the client about this medication?
- A. Take the medication with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
- B. Avoid exposure to sunlight while taking this medication.
- C. Do not discontinue the medication abruptly.
- D. Increase fluid intake while taking this medication.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Do not discontinue the medication abruptly.' It is crucial for clients prescribed prednisone to not stop the medication suddenly to prevent adrenal insufficiency, as this medication suppresses the body's natural production of cortisol. Choice A is incorrect because prednisone should be taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects, not necessarily to prevent stomach upset. Choice B is incorrect as there is no specific need to avoid sunlight while taking prednisone. Choice D is not directly related to prednisone use; while adequate fluid intake is generally beneficial, it is not a specific instruction for prednisone administration.
You may also like to solve these questions
While providing care to a group of patients, which patient should the nurse prioritize seeing first?
- A. A patient with a hip replacement on prolonged bed rest reporting chest pain and dyspnea
- B. A bedridden patient with a reddened area on the buttocks who needs to be turned
- C. A patient on bed rest with renal calculi who needs to go to the bathroom
- D. A patient post-knee surgery who needs range of motion exercises
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse should prioritize seeing the patient with a hip replacement on prolonged bed rest reporting chest pain and dyspnea first. This patient is at higher risk for deep vein thrombosis due to prolonged bed rest, which can lead to a life-threatening embolus. Chest pain and dyspnea could also indicate a potential pulmonary embolism, which requires immediate assessment and intervention. The other patients, while requiring care, do not present with symptoms that suggest an immediate life-threatening situation, making them lower priority at this time. Therefore, option A is the correct choice as it addresses a potentially critical condition that requires immediate attention.
A nurse is caring for a client who has terminal lung cancer. The nurse observes the client's family assisting with all ADLs. Which of the following rationales for self-care should the nurse communicate to the family?
- A. Allowing the client to function independently will strengthen muscles and promote healing.
- B. The client needs privacy at times for self-reflection and organizing life.
- C. The client's sense of loss can be lessened through retaining control of some areas of life.
- D. Performing ADLs is a requirement prior to discharge from an acute care facility.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. In situations like terminal illness, allowing clients to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) can help maintain their sense of control and dignity, providing comfort and a sense of normalcy amidst their health challenges. Choice A is incorrect because in a terminal stage, the focus is not on muscle strength or promoting physical healing but rather on enhancing the client's emotional well-being. Choice B, while highlighting the importance of privacy, is not directly addressing the client's need for control and autonomy. Choice D is incorrect as the priority in this scenario is not related to discharge requirements but rather the client's emotional and psychological needs during their terminal illness.
A client with a history of hypertension is prescribed a beta-blocker. Which side effect should the LPN/LVN monitor for in this client?
- A. Increased appetite
- B. Dry mouth
- C. Bradycardia
- D. Insomnia
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct side effect that the LPN/LVN should monitor for in a client prescribed a beta-blocker is bradycardia. Beta-blockers work by slowing down the heart rate, which can lead to bradycardia as a common side effect. Monitoring the client's heart rate is crucial, as bradycardia can be a serious condition. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because increased appetite, dry mouth, and insomnia are not typically associated with beta-blockers. Increased appetite is more commonly linked to certain medications like corticosteroids, dry mouth can be a side effect of anticholinergic medications, and insomnia may be a side effect of stimulant medications.
The healthcare provider is assessing an immobile patient for deep vein thromboses (DVTs). Which action will the healthcare provider take?
- A. Remove elastic stockings every 4 hours.
- B. Measure the calf circumference of both legs.
- C. Lightly rub the lower leg for redness and tenderness.
- D. Dorsiflex the foot while assessing for patient discomfort.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct action when assessing an immobile patient for deep vein thromboses (DVTs) is to measure the calf circumference of both legs. This helps in detecting swelling or changes that may indicate the presence of a DVT. Removing elastic stockings every 4 hours (Choice A) is not necessary and can disrupt circulation. Lightly rubbing the lower leg for redness and tenderness (Choice C) can potentially dislodge a clot if present. Dorsiflexing the foot while assessing for patient discomfort (Choice D) is not a specific assessment for DVT and may not provide relevant information in this context.
A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a client who reports diarrhea and decreased urination for 4 days. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to assess the client's skin turgor?
- A. Grasp a skin fold on the chest under the clavicle, release it, and note whether it springs back
- B. Pinch the skin on the back of the hand and observe for elasticity
- C. Assess the skin turgor on the abdomen by pinching the skin
- D. Check the skin turgor by pressing on the forearm and observing the rebound
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: To assess skin turgor, the nurse should grasp a skin fold on the chest under the clavicle, release it, and note whether it springs back. This method is preferred for older adults and in cases of significant fluid imbalance. Option B is incorrect as assessing skin turgor on the back of the hand is not the standard assessment site for skin turgor. Option C is incorrect as the abdomen is not the typical area for assessing skin turgor; the chest under the clavicle is a more accurate site. Option D is incorrect as pressing on the forearm is not the appropriate site for evaluating skin turgor; the chest under the clavicle is the recommended location for this assessment.