A client with a history of dementia has become increasingly confused at night and is picking at an abdominal surgical dressing and the tape securing the intravenous (IV) line. The abdominal dressing is no longer occlusive, and the IV insertion site is pink. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
Replace the IV catheter with a smaller gauge
Apply soft bilateral wrist restraints
Leave the light on in the room at night
Redress the abdominal incision
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is: c. Leave the light on in the room at night.
Choice A: Replace the IV catheter with a smaller gauge
Replacing the IV catheter with a smaller gauge is not directly addressing the issue of the client’s confusion and agitation. While a smaller gauge might be less irritating, it does not solve the problem of the client picking at the IV site. The pinkness at the IV site suggests mild irritation or early signs of phlebitis, which can be managed by monitoring and ensuring proper securement and care of the IV site.
Choice B: Apply soft bilateral wrist restraints
Applying wrist restraints should be a last resort due to the potential for causing distress, agitation, and physical harm to the patient. Restraints can lead to negative outcomes such as decreased circulation, pressure ulcers, and increased agitation, especially in patients with dementia. It is generally recommended to use less restrictive measures first.
Choice C: Leave the light on in the room at night
Leaving the light on in the room at night (C) can help reduce confusion and agitation in dementia patients, a phenomenon known as sundowning. However, it does not address the immediate issue of the non-occlusive dressing and the pink IV insertion site.
Choice D: Redress the abdominal incision
Given the situation, the most appropriate intervention would be to redress the abdominal incision (D). This is because the dressing is no longer occlusive, which can increase the risk of infection. Ensuring the dressing is secure and clean is crucial for the patient's safety.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice B is correct because monitoring abdominal girth is an important intervention for a client with cirrhosis of the liver and end stage liver disease. Cirrhosis of the liver can cause portal hypertension, which is an increased pressure in the portal vein that carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. Portal hypertension can lead to ascites, which is an accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. The nurse should measure and record the abdominal girth daily and report any significant changes.
Choice C is correct because reporting serum albumin and globulin levels is an important intervention for a client with cirrhosis of the liver and end stage liver disease. Cirrhosis of the liver can impair the synthesis of proteins, such as albumin and globulin, which are essential for maintaining fluid balance, immune function, and blood clotting. The nurse should monitor and report the serum albumin and globulin levels and administer supplements or transfusions as prescribed.
Choice D is correct because noting signs of bleeding and edema is an important intervention for a client with cirrhosis of the liver and end stage liver disease. Cirrhosis of the liver can cause coagulopathy, which is a disorder of blood clotting, due to reduced production of clotting factors and increased consumption of platelets. Coagulopathy can lead to bleeding from various sites, such as the gums, nose, esophagus, stomach, or rectum. The nurse should observe and report any signs of bleeding and apply pressure or bandages as needed. Cirrhosis of the liver can also cause hypoalbuminemia, which is a low level of albumin in the blood, due to decreased synthesis or increased loss of albumin. Hypoalbuminemia can lead to edema, which is swelling caused by fluid retention in the tissues. The nurse should assess and report any signs of edema and elevate the affected limbs or apply compression stockings as indicated.
Choice E is correct because limiting fluid intake to 1500 mL daily is an important intervention for a client with cirrhosis of the liver and end stage liver disease. Fluid restriction can help prevent or reduce ascites and edema by decreasing the fluid load on the circulatory system and the kidneys. The nurse should measure and record the fluid intake and output and educate the client on how to limit their fluid intake.
Choice A is incorrect because providing a diet low in phosphorus is not a specific intervention for a client with cirrhosis of the liver and end stage liver disease. A diet low in phosphorus may be indicated for clients with chronic kidney disease or hyperphosphatemia, but not for clients with cirrhosis of the liver. The nurse should provide a diet that is high in calories, carbohydrates, and protein, but low in sodium, fat, and alcohol for clients with cirrhosis of the liver.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because instructing the client and family to reconsider end of life choices is disrespectful and insensitive. The nurse should respect the client's autonomy and preferences and support their decisions.
Choice B reason: This is correct because teaching the client how to use guided imagery is a helpful intervention for coping with feelings related to death and dying. Guided imagery is a relaxation technique that involves visualizing positive images and scenarios that can reduce stress, anxiety, and pain.
Choice C reason: This is correct because recording the client's desire to live is an important intervention for coping with feelings related to death and dying. The nurse should acknowledge and validate the client's emotions and help them express their hopes and fears.
Choice D reason: This is correct because encouraging family to visit frequently is a beneficial intervention for coping with feelings related to death and dying. The nurse should facilitate family involvement and communication and help the client maintain meaningful relationships.
Choice E reason: This is correct because encouraging family to bring the client old photographs is a useful intervention for coping with feelings related to death and dying. The nurse should assist the client in reminiscing and reviewing their life story and achievements.
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