A client with gout is concerned about the potential complications of the condition.
Which complication should the nurse prioritize when discussing potential risks with the client?
Chronic gouty arthritis.
Tophi formation in joints and soft tissues.
Joint deformities and limited mobility.
Kidney stones or kidney damage (nephrolithiasis).
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
"Chronic gouty arthritis." Chronic gouty arthritis is a potential complication of gout, but it is not the highest priority when discussing potential risks with the client.
Kidney stones and kidney damage (nephrolithiasis) are more concerning complications due to their impact on overall health.
Choice B rationale:
"Tophi formation in joints and soft tissues." Tophi formation is a complication of gout and can lead to joint deformities and limited mobility.
While it is important to address, kidney stones and kidney damage pose a more immediate and severe threat to the client's well-being.
Choice C rationale:
"Joint deformities and limited mobility." This is a valid concern, but kidney stones and kidney damage (nephrolithiasis) should be prioritized when discussing potential complications of gout because they can have more serious systemic consequences.
Choice D rationale:
"Kidney stones or kidney damage (nephrolithiasis)." This is the correct choice.
Kidney stones and kidney damage can result from the deposition of urate crystals in the kidneys, which is a complication of gout.
These complications can lead to significant health issues and should be prioritized in discussions with the client.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The statement, "My joint pain has been gradually increasing over the past few months," is indicative of gout, but it is not a specific clinical manifestation.
Gout typically presents with sudden and severe joint pain during acute attacks.
Choice B rationale:
"I have noticed that my joint is swollen, red, and warm" is the correct choice.
These are classic clinical manifestations of gout during an acute attack.
The accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joint causes inflammation, leading to redness, warmth, and swelling.
Choice C rationale:
"I can move my affected joint without any limitations" is not consistent with gout.
Gout attacks often limit joint mobility due to pain and inflammation.
Choice D rationale:
"I have been experiencing hard lumps of uric acid crystals under my skin" describes tophi, which are a more advanced manifestation of gout.
While tophi can occur in some cases, they are not one of the initial clinical manifestations of gout.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Are you taking any medications for pain relief?" This choice is not the most appropriate in this situation.
While it is important to address the patient's pain, understanding the medications aimed at treating the underlying cause, which is high uric acid levels, is more crucial.
Pain relief medications may provide symptomatic relief but do not address the root cause of gout.
Choice B rationale:
"Are you taking any medications to lower your uric acid levels?" This is the correct choice.
Gout is primarily caused by elevated uric acid levels in the blood, leading to the formation of urate crystals in the joints.
Lowering uric acid levels is a key component of managing and preventing gout attacks.
Asking about medications that target this aspect of the condition is essential for the patient's care.
Choice C rationale:
"Are you taking any medications to treat kidney stones?" This choice is not the most appropriate in this context.
While kidney stones can be associated with gout due to the deposition of urate crystals in the kidneys, the primary concern in gout management is to control uric acid levels and prevent joint inflammation.
Kidney stone treatment may be relevant but is not the immediate focus of care.
Choice D rationale:
"Are you taking any medications to promote weight loss?" This choice is not relevant to gout management.
While weight loss can be beneficial for some patients with gout, especially if they are overweight, it is not a primary medication-based treatment for the condition.
Lowering uric acid levels and managing pain are more critical aspects of gout care.
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