A client with a compound fracture of the left ankle is being discharged with a below-the-knee cast. Which
instruction should the practical nurse (PN) provide to the client prior to discharge?
Apply a cold pack to any "hot spots" on the cast.
Keep the left leg in a dependent position.
Expect some increase in pain.
Never scratch under the cast.
The Correct Answer is D
When providing instructions to a client with a below-the-knee cast for a compound fracture of the left ankle, it is important to prioritize their safety and proper care of the cast. The instruction to never scratch under the cast is crucial for preventing complications and maintaining the integrity of the cast.
Let's evaluate the other options:
a) Apply a cold pack to any "hot spots" on the cast.
Applying a cold pack to any "hot spots" on the cast may help alleviate discomfort or itching, but it is not the highest priority instruction. Preventing scratching under the cast is more important to avoid skin damage or infection.
b) Keep the left leg in a dependent position.
Keeping the left leg in a dependent position (hanging down) is not the appropriate instruction for a client with a below-the-knee cast. It is generally recommended to elevate the injured limb to reduce swelling and promote proper blood flow. Elevating the leg would involve keeping it raised above the level of the heart.
c) Expect some increase in pain.
While it is possible for the client to experience some increase in pain after the application of a cast, this instruction alone is not comprehensive or specific enough for proper discharge education. Providing information about pain management strategies or when to seek medical atention for excessive pain would be more appropriate.
In summary, when discharging a client with a compound fracture of the left ankle and a below-the-knee cast, the practical nurse (PN) should provide the instruction to never scratch under the cast. This helps prevent complications and maintain the integrity of the cast, promoting proper healing of the fracture.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Analgesics are not the most effective classification of medications for treating this pain because they are drugs that relieve pain by blocking pain signals or reducing inflammation, but they do not address the underlying cause of trigeminal neuralgia, which is compression or irritation of the trigeminal nervE.
Choice B reason: Antihistamines are not the most effective classification of medications for treating this pain because they are drugs that block histamine receptors and reduce allergic reactions, but they do not affect the function or activity of the trigeminal nervE.
Choice C reason: Antibiotics are not the most effective classification of medications for treating this pain because they are drugs that kill or inhibit bacteria and treat infections, but they do not treat trigeminal neuralgia unless it is caused by a bacterial infection, which is rarE.
Choice D reason: Anticonvulsants are the most effective classification of medications for treating this pain because they are drugs that stabilize nerve membranes and reduce nerve impulses, which can decrease the frequency and intensity of trigeminal neuralgia attacks
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: The integumentary system is a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria can enter through cuts or abrasions on the skin, causing cutaneous anthrax, which is the most common and least severe form of the diseasE.
Choice B reason: The endocrine system is not a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria do not affect the glands or hormones of the body.
Choice C reason: The central nervous system is a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria can invade the brain and spinal cord, causing meningitis, which is a rare but fatal complication of anthrax infection.
Choice D reason: The renal system is not a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria do not affect the kidneys or urinary tract.
Choice E reason: The respiratory system is a portal of entry for anthrax because the bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs, causing inhalation anthrax, which is the most deadly and difficult to treat form of the diseasE.
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