Nokea
When obtaining a health history and physical assessment for a 36-year-old female patient with possible multiple sclerosis (MS), the nurse should
- A. assess for the presence of chest pain.
- B. inquire about urinary tract problems.
- C. inspect the skin for rashes or discoloration.
- D. ask the patient about any increase in libido.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: When assessing a patient for possible multiple sclerosis (MS), it is important to inquire about urinary tract problems as they are common symptoms of the condition, such as incontinence or retention. Chest pain is not typically associated with MS, so assessing for its presence is not a priority. Inspecting the skin for rashes or discoloration is not a typical manifestation of MS. Additionally, a decrease in libido, rather than an increase, is more commonly seen in patients with MS. Therefore, the most appropriate action for the nurse in this scenario is to inquire about urinary tract problems.
You may also like to solve these questions
A patient is admitted to the emergency department complaining of sudden onset shortness of breath and is diagnosed with a possible pulmonary embolus. How should the nurse prepare the patient for diagnostic testing to confirm the diagnosis?
- A. Start an IV so contrast media may be given
- B. Ensure that the patient has been NPO for at least 6 hours.
- C. Inform radiology that a radioactive glucose preparation is needed
- D. Instruct the patient to undress to the waist and remove any metal objects
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: For diagnosing pulmonary emboli, spiral computed tomography (CT) scans are commonly used, and contrast media may be given intravenously (IV) during the scan to enhance visualization of blood vessels. Chest x-rays are not typically diagnostic for pulmonary embolism. When preparing for a chest x-ray, the patient needs to undress and remove any metal objects. Bronchoscopy is used for examining the bronchial tree, not for assessing vascular changes, and the patient should be NPO 6 to 12 hours before the procedure. Positron emission tomography (PET) scans are primarily used to detect malignancies, and a radioactive glucose preparation is utilized for this purpose.
The nurse prepares a patient with a left-sided pleural effusion for a thoracentesis. How should the nurse position the patient?
- A. Supine with the head of the bed elevated 30 degrees
- B. In a high-Fowler's position with the left arm extended
- C. On the right side with the left arm extended above the head
- D. Sitting upright with the arms supported on an overbed table
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct position for a patient with a left-sided pleural effusion undergoing thoracentesis is sitting upright with the arms supported on an overbed table. This position helps increase lung expansion, allows fluid to collect at the lung bases, and expands the intercostal space making access to the pleural space easier. Placing the patient supine, in a high-Fowler's position, or on the right side with the left arm extended above the head could increase the work of breathing for the patient and complicate the thoracentesis procedure for the healthcare provider.
A client was recently diagnosed with diverticulosis. What types of foods should the nurse recommend for this client?
- A. Whole grain cereal
- B. Eggs
- C. Cottage cheese
- D. Fish
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Diverticulosis is a condition characterized by small protrusions in the intestinal tract. To manage diverticulosis, a high-fiber diet is recommended. Foods rich in fiber help prevent constipation and reduce the risk of inflammation in the intestines. Whole grain cereals are an excellent source of fiber and can aid in maintaining bowel regularity. Eggs, cottage cheese, and fish are not high-fiber foods and may not provide the necessary dietary support for a client with diverticulosis. While protein-rich foods like eggs and fish are beneficial for overall health, they are not the primary recommendation for managing diverticulosis.
A diabetic patient's arterial blood gas (ABG) results are pH 7.28; PaCO2 34 mm Hg; PaO2 85 mm Hg; HCO3 18 mEq/L. The nurse would expect which finding?
- A. Intercostal retractions
- B. Kussmaul respirations
- C. Low oxygen saturation (SpO2)
- D. Decreased venous O2 pressure
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Kussmaul respirations (deep and rapid) are a compensatory mechanism for metabolic acidosis. The low pH and low bicarbonate levels indicate metabolic acidosis. Intercostal retractions, low oxygen saturation, and decreased venous O2 pressure are not associated with acidosis. Intercostal retractions typically occur in respiratory distress, while low oxygen saturation and decreased venous O2 pressure are more related to respiratory or circulatory issues, not metabolic acidosis.
The patient who has two fractured ribs from an automobile accident is receiving discharge teaching. Which statement by the patient indicates effective teaching?
- A. I am going to buy a rib binder to wear during the day.
- B. I can take shallow breaths to prevent my chest from hurting.
- C. I should plan on taking the pain pills only at bedtime so I can sleep.
- D. I will use the incentive spirometer every hour or two during the day.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is, 'I will use the incentive spirometer every hour or two during the day.' After sustaining rib fractures, it is crucial to prevent complications like atelectasis and pneumonia by practicing deep breathing and coughing. Using the incentive spirometer helps in maintaining lung expansion and preventing respiratory issues. Buying a rib binder could restrict chest expansion and hinder deep breathing efforts, increasing the risk of atelectasis. Taking shallow breaths may not effectively expand the lungs, leading to potential respiratory complications. Relying solely on pain medication at bedtime may not adequately address the need for lung expansion and prevention of respiratory complications during the day.