A client with a fungal infection of the toenail reports to the nurse that the client has been applying an over-the-counter (OTC) triple antibiotic ointment to the infection daily for two weeks without any improvement. Which action should the nurse take?
Instruct the client to obtain a prescription for oral terbinafine.
Advise the client to obtain a prescription-strength formulation of the ointment.
Reassure the client that treatment of fungus infected toenails often takes several months.
Suggest that the client use the ointment twice a day to be more effective.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Instruct the client to obtain a prescription for oral terbinafine: Since the client has been using an over-the-counter triple antibiotic ointment for two weeks without improvement, it indicates that the treatment is ineffective for fungal infections. Over-the-counter ointments are typically not effective for toenail fungal infections, which often require prescription-strength antifungal treatment. Oral terbinafine is a prescription antifungal medication that is more effective for treating such infections, so advising the client to obtain a prescription is the most appropriate action.
B. Advise the client to obtain a prescription-strength formulation of the ointment: Prescription-strength topical treatments are often used for fungal infections, but toenail fungal infections usually require oral antifungal medications to penetrate the nail effectively. Advising the client to obtain a prescription-strength ointment may not address the root cause, which often involves systemic treatment.
C. Reassure the client that treatment of fungus-infected toenails often takes several months: While it is true that toenail fungal infections can take several months to treat, the lack of improvement with the current treatment suggests that a more effective treatment is needed. Reassuring the client about the duration of treatment without addressing the ineffectiveness of the current treatment does not resolve the issue.
D. Suggest that the client use the ointment twice a day to be more effective: Increasing the frequency of application of the triple antibiotic ointment is unlikely to improve its effectiveness against a fungal infection. Fungal infections typically require specific antifungal agents, and simply using the current ointment more frequently will not address the underlying issue.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Complete a medication variance report: This action is important if there is a concern about the medication’s impact or if the adverse effects might be related to an error in administration or dosage. Documenting and reporting these issues help ensure safety and provide information for evaluating the medication’s use.
B. Obtain a soft bristle toothbrush for client: Using a soft bristle toothbrush is a critical intervention to minimize gum trauma and bleeding, especially in clients on anticoagulants who are at higher risk for bleeding and gum tenderness. This helps reduce the risk of further bleeding and discomfort.
C. Report findings to healthcare provider: It is essential to inform the healthcare provider about the bleeding, tender gums, and bruising. These symptoms indicate potential complications related to the anticoagulant therapy that may require adjustment of the medication or additional interventions to manage the bleeding risk.
D. Provide a PRN NSAID for gum discomfort: NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) should generally be avoided in clients on anticoagulants because they can further increase bleeding risk. Instead, other methods for managing discomfort should be considered, and this action could potentially exacerbate the bleeding issue.
E. Review most recent coagulation lab values: Checking the most recent coagulation lab values is important to assess whether the anticoagulant is at an appropriate level and to determine if adjustments are needed. This helps in managing and preventing further bleeding complications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Before meals to prevent hyperglycemia: Glucagon is not used to prevent hyperglycemia. Instead, it is used in emergency situations to address severe hypoglycemia. Preventing hyperglycemia is typically managed with insulin and other diabetes management strategies, not glucagon.
B. When unable to eat during sick days: While it is important to manage blood glucose levels when unable to eat, glucagon is specifically used for severe hypoglycemia rather than during periods of illness where eating is difficult. During sick days, other measures, such as adjusting insulin or seeking medical advice, are more appropriate.
C. When signs of severe hypoglycemia occur: This is the correct instruction. Glucagon is an emergency treatment used to rapidly raise blood glucose levels in cases of severe hypoglycemia where the person is unconscious or unable to take oral glucose. Recognizing and administering glucagon during severe hypoglycemic episodes is crucial for preventing complications.
D. At the onset of signs of diabetic ketoacidosis: Glucagon is not used to treat diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is managed with insulin, fluids, and electrolytes. Glucagon is specifically for severe hypoglycemia and is not indicated for DKA.
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