A nurse is assisting with the plan of care for an older adult client who has a new prescription for transdermal clonidine. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Inform the client of the adverse effect of diarrhea.
Monitor the client for weight loss.
Advise the client about increased dry mouth.
Check the client for increased hypopigmentation under the patch.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
Informing the client of the adverse effect of diarrhea is less common with clonidine use, especially in comparison to other side effects like dry mouth or skin irritation.
Choice B Reason:
Monitoring for weight loss isn't a primary concern specifically associated with transdermal clonidine use.
Choice C Reason:
Advise the client about increased dry mouth. Dry mouth is a common adverse effect of clonidine, including the transdermal form. Patients should be informed about this so they can manage it effectively, for example, by drinking plenty of water or using sugar-free gum or candy to stimulate saliva production.
Choice D Reason:
Hypopigmentation is not a commonly reported issue with transdermal clonidine patches. However, local skin irritation or rash can occur at the site of the patch.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"I can have clear liquids up to 3 hours before the procedure." This is incorrect. Clients are usually instructed to be NPO (nothing by mouth) for a certain period before the procedure, typically 6-8 hours, to reduce the risk of aspiration.
Choice B Reason:
"I can eat as soon as the procedure is completed." This is incorrect. Clients should not eat or drink until the gag reflex returns, which can take a few hours after the procedure.
Choice C Reason:
"I will receive an injection of radioactive material prior to having the procedure.” This is incorrect. An injection of radioactive material is not part of a bronchoscopy. This might be confused with a different diagnostic procedure, such as a PET scan.
Choice D Reason:
"I might have blood-tinged sputum after the procedure." This statement indicates an understanding of the teaching. It is common for clients to have a small amount of blood-tinged sputum following a bronchoscopy due to the irritation caused by the procedure.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The client's fingers are cool to the touch is correct. Coolness of the fingers within a short time after a cast application can indicate compromised circulation or potential compartment syndrome, which requires urgent attention to prevent tissue damage or loss of function. It suggests impaired blood flow to the fingers, which is a serious concern requiring immediate evaluation by the provider.
Choice B Reason:
The client reports severe itching under the cast is incorrect. While itching can be uncomfortable, it might not pose an immediate threat. Itching can commonly occur as the skin heals and can be managed through non-invasive means.
Choice C Reason:
The client's capillary refill is 3 seconds is incorrect. A capillary refill of 3 seconds is slightly prolonged but doesn't typically indicates an immediate emergency. However, if this finding worsens or if combined with other concerning symptoms, it might warrant further assessment.
Choice D Reason:
The client reports increased pain at the area of the fracture is incorrect. Increased pain after a cast application can be expected initially, especially within 2 hours of the procedure. However, persistent or severe pain could indicate issues like poor alignment, swelling, or other complications. While it's important to address pain, it might not require immediate reporting unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

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