A client with a skin infection has developed skin blisters and abscesses at the site.
The client is concerned about these skin changes.
What information should the nurse provide to the client regarding these skin manifestations?
"Skin blisters and abscesses are signs of worsening infection, and we need to adjust your antibiotic therapy.".
"Skin blisters and abscesses are common in severe cases of skin infections and may require drainage or further treatment.".
"Skin blisters and abscesses are unrelated to your skin infection and may be a separate dermatological issue.".
"Skin blisters and abscesses indicate an allergic reaction to the antibiotic; we will switch to a different medication.".
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
"Skin blisters and abscesses are signs of worsening infection, and we need to adjust your antibiotic therapy." This response is not entirely accurate.
While skin blisters and abscesses can indicate a more severe infection, the immediate response should focus on proper wound care, drainage if necessary, and evaluating the effectiveness of the current antibiotic therapy.
Adjusting antibiotic therapy may be considered later if the infection does not improve.
Choice B rationale:
"Skin blisters and abscesses are common in severe cases of skin infections and may require drainage or further treatment." This response is correct.
Skin blisters and abscesses can occur in severe skin infections, and they often require drainage, wound care, and potentially further medical intervention to address the underlying infection.
Choice C rationale:
"Skin blisters and abscesses are unrelated to your skin infection and may be a separate dermatological issue." This response is not accurate.
Skin blisters and abscesses in the context of a skin infection are likely related to the infection itself and should be managed accordingly.
Choice D rationale:
"Skin blisters and abscesses indicate an allergic reaction to the antibiotic; we will switch to a different medication." This response is not appropriate unless there is clear evidence of an allergic reaction to the antibiotic.
Skin blisters and abscesses are more commonly associated with the severity of the infection or the presence of pus collection, not necessarily an allergic reaction to the medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administering anticoagulant medication is not appropriate for a patient with localized redness, warmth, swelling, pain, and tenderness in the lower limb.
These symptoms suggest a potential inflammatory or infectious process, not a blood clot.
Anticoagulants are used to prevent or treat blood clots, and there is no indication for their use based on the presented symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
Applying cold compresses to the affected area is an appropriate nursing intervention for a patient with localized redness, warmth, swelling, pain, and tenderness.
These symptoms are indicative of inflammation or infection, and cold compresses can help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and provide comfort to the patient.
Choice C rationale:
Encouraging the patient to ambulate frequently may not be appropriate at this stage.
Ambulation is generally encouraged to prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in hospitalized patients.
However, in the presence of localized redness, warmth, swelling, pain, and tenderness, it is essential to identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment and rest before promoting ambulation.
Choice D rationale:
Administering acetaminophen for pain relief is a reasonable option, but it addresses only the symptom (pain) and not the underlying cause of the patient's condition.
While pain management is important for patient comfort, it should be combined with interventions that directly address the inflammation or infection responsible for the symptoms.
Therefore, choice B (cold compresses) is a more appropriate initial intervention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"I have blisters all over the area." This statement does not indicate an understanding of the clinical presentation of cellulitis.
Blisters are not a typical symptom of cellulitis.
Cellulitis is characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and pain, but blisters are more commonly associated with conditions like burns or herpes.
Choice B rationale:
"My skin feels cool to the touch." This statement is not indicative of an understanding of cellulitis.
In cellulitis, the affected area typically feels warm due to inflammation, not cool.
Choice C rationale:
"There is no change in the color of my skin." This statement suggests a lack of understanding of cellulitis.
One of the hallmark signs of cellulitis is a change in skin color, often appearing red or erythematous, in the affected area.
Choice D rationale:
"The area is red, swollen, and painful." This statement correctly indicates an understanding of the clinical presentation of cellulitis.
Cellulitis is characterized by these classic symptoms: redness, warmth, swelling, and pain.
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