A client with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is receiving dicyclomine, an anticholinergic drug. Prior to administering the next dose, the practical nurse (PN) determines that the client's mucous membranes are dry, and the client reports having a dry mouth. Which action should the PN take
Check vital signs.
Notify the charge nurse.
Monitor hemoglobin.
Provide oral care.
Observe and report any ear drainage after removing the device.
The Correct Answer is D
Dry mucous membranes and a dry mouth are common side effects of anticholinergic drugs like dicyclomine. These medications block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for stimulating secretions in the body. As a result, the client may experience dryness in various parts of the body, including the mouth.
Providing oral care, such as offering the client sips of water or providing a moistening agent for the mouth, can help alleviate the discomfort caused by dryness and promote oral hygiene. It is an appropriate and immediate intervention for the client's current symptoms.
Incorrect:
A. Checking vital signs may not directly address the client's dry mouth, but it is a good practice to assess the client's overall condition.
B. Monitoring hemoglobin would not be necessary in this situation, as it does not directly relate to the client's dry mucous membranes.
C. Notifying the charge nurse may be appropriate if the client's symptoms worsen or if there are other concerning factors, but the priority action in this case is to provide oral care to address the client's discomfort.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The client finding that necessitates immediate attention by the practical nurse (PN) is a client who is having bright red drainage from the rectum following a colonoscopy with polyp removal. Bright red rectal bleeding can indicate active bleeding and immediate intervention is required to assess the severity of the bleeding, control the bleeding if possible, and prevent further complications.
A. The older client with a blood pressure of 100/70 after receiving meperidine for pain may require further assessment, but it does not indicate an immediate life-threatening condition.
B. Pink urine draining from the indwelling urinary catheter following a transurethral prostatectomy may be expected due to the surgical procedure, but it should still be monitored.
D. Brown-green bile draining from a T-tube after cholecystectomy for cholelithiasis is also an expected finding.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A: This response is inappropriate as it can be seen as encouraging or validating the patient's comment, which is not professional behavior in a healthcare setting.
B: This choice might seem like a deterrent, but it is more punitive than educational. It does not address the inappropriateness of the comment or guide the patient to understand why the comment was unacceptable.
C: While this statement is true, it does not provide guidance to the patient on appropriate communication. It may also come across as dismissive and does not address the need for respectful interaction.
D: This is the correct response because it sets clear boundaries and communicates to the patient that such comments are not acceptable. It is important for healthcare professionals to maintain a professional environment and educate patients about appropriate behavior.
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