A client who is experiencing a first gouty arthritis attack reports excruciating pain in the right great toe. The nurse inspects the inflamed joint and administers ibuprofen 800mg PO as prescribed. Which instruction should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
Replace dietary table salt with salt substitutes.
Encourage active range of motion to limit stiffness.
Take prescribed pain medication after exercising joints.
Avoid the consumption of wine, beer, and coffee.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Replacing dietary table salt with salt substitutes is not specifically related to managing gout. Gout is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to inflammation and pain. The primary dietary factor influencing gout is purine intake, not sodium. While reducing sodium intake is generally beneficial for overall cardiovascular health, it does not directly impact uric acid levels or the management of gout. Therefore, recommending salt substitutes does not address the underlying cause or prevention of gout attacks. Moreover, some salt substitutes contain potassium chloride, which can have its own health implications, particularly for individuals with kidney issues.
Choice B reason: Encouraging active range of motion to limit stiffness is important for maintaining joint function in many conditions, but during an acute gout attack, the primary focus should be on reducing inflammation and pain. Gout attacks cause severe pain and swelling, particularly in the affected joint, and encouraging active movement during an acute phase can exacerbate the pain and inflammation. It is more appropriate to rest the affected joint and manage pain and inflammation with medications and other supportive measures. Once the acute phase has resolved, gradual reintroduction of movement and exercise can help maintain joint function and prevent long-term stiffness.
Choice C reason: Taking prescribed pain medication after exercising joints is not appropriate advice for managing gout. Pain medication, such as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), should be taken as prescribed by the healthcare provider to effectively manage pain and inflammation. It is crucial to follow the prescribed regimen for pain management, regardless of exercise or activity. Furthermore, during an acute gout attack, it is advisable to avoid activities that may aggravate the affected joint. Pain management should be proactive, and medications should be taken at regular intervals to maintain pain relief rather than in response to specific activities like exercise.
Choice D reason: Avoiding the consumption of wine, beer, and coffee is crucial for managing gout. Alcohol, particularly beer and wine, contains high levels of purines, which can increase uric acid production and exacerbate gout symptoms. Alcohol also promotes dehydration, which can lead to higher uric acid concentrations in the blood. Both of these factors can trigger gout attacks. Coffee has mixed effects on gout; while some studies suggest that moderate coffee consumption may not significantly impact uric acid levels, it is generally advised to be cautious with its intake. Educating the client to avoid or limit these beverages can help prevent future gout attacks and manage symptoms more effectively. Dietary modifications are a key component of gout management, and avoiding high-purine foods and beverages is essential in reducing the frequency and severity of gout attacks.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"C"},"C":{"answers":"C"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"C"}}
Explanation
Temperature: 98.9°F
- Neither Disease Process Nor Medication Use:
The temperature is within normal range and does not indicate an infection or other abnormality.
Heart Rate: 112 beats per minute
- Disease Process:
The elevated heart rate (tachycardia) is most likely due to the asthma attack, which increases respiratory effort and oxygen demand. Anxiety from the attack could also contribute.
Respirations: 28 breaths per minute
- Disease Process:
The elevated respiratory rate (tachypnea) is consistent with the asthma attack and respiratory distress, a hallmark of the disease process.
Blood Pressure: 130/86 mmHg
- Neither Disease Process Nor Medication Use:
This value is slightly elevated but not significantly enough to be directly attributed to asthma or medication. It could be situational due to stress or anxiety.
Oxygen Saturation: 88%
- Disease Process:
The low oxygen saturation is indicative of hypoxemia caused by bronchoconstriction and impaired gas exchange during the asthma attack.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Osmolarity is a measure of the concentration of solutes in the blood. While it can be important in certain contexts, it is not the primary concern when monitoring a client with Addison's disease who is on hydrocortisone therapy.
Choice B reason: Platelets are a component of blood involved in clotting. Monitoring platelet count is important in certain conditions, but it is not the primary focus for a client with Addison's disease on hydrocortisone therapy.
Choice C reason: Albumin is a protein in the blood that helps maintain osmotic pressure and transport substances. While it is important to monitor albumin levels in some conditions, it is not the primary concern for a client with Addison's disease on hydrocortisone therapy.
Choice D reason: Glucose levels are crucial to monitor in clients with Addison's disease on hydrocortisone therapy. Hydrocortisone can affect glucose metabolism, potentially leading to hyperglycemia. Monitoring glucose levels helps ensure that the client's blood sugar remains within a safe range and allows for timely intervention if necessary.
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