A client with lymphoma is experiencing pain and itching.
What nursing interventions should be implemented to address these symptoms?
"I will administer analgesics and antipyretics as prescribed.”
"I will provide comfort measures such as cool compresses and lotion application.”
"I will recommend avoiding all physical activity.”
"I will perform surgery to alleviate the pain and itching.”
The Correct Answer is B
Choice B rationale:
Providing comfort measures, such as cool compresses and lotion application, is an appropriate nursing intervention to address pain and itching in a client with lymphoma.
Itching is a common symptom in some lymphomas, and these measures can help soothe the skin and alleviate discomfort.
Administering analgesics (as mentioned in choice A) may be necessary for pain relief, but it is not the primary intervention for itching.
Choice A rationale:
"I will administer analgesics and antipyretics as prescribed." Administering analgesics (pain relievers) can be a helpful intervention if the client is experiencing pain, but it may not effectively address itching.
Antipyretics (fever-reducing medications) are not relevant to addressing pain and itching in lymphoma patients unless they have a fever as well.
Choice C rationale:
"I will recommend avoiding all physical activity." While it may be necessary for some patients to limit physical activity during certain phases of lymphoma treatment, recommending complete avoidance of physical activity is not a standard intervention for addressing pain and itching associated with lymphoma.
In fact, gentle movement and exercises may be beneficial for maintaining mobility and overall well-being.
Choice D rationale:
"I will perform surgery to alleviate the pain and itching." Surgical intervention is not a primary or standard approach for addressing pain and itching in lymphoma patients.
Surgery is typically reserved for specific cases, such as lymph node biopsy or removal, and would not be the first-line treatment for these symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Fever exceeding 38°C is a common symptom in HL, known as "Pel-Ebstein fever." This cyclic pattern of fever is characteristic of Hodgkin's lymphoma, but it is not the only common symptom.
Therefore, this choice is partially correct but not the most comprehensive.
Choice B rationale:
Significant unexplained weight loss over a period of six months or less is a classic "B" symptom associated with HL.
B symptoms are systemic symptoms that indicate a more advanced stage of the disease and typically include fever, night sweats, and weight loss exceeding 10% of the patient's baseline.
This choice is correct and represents a hallmark of HL.
Choice C rationale:
Abdominal pain and fullness are not typically associated with Hodgkin's lymphoma.
These symptoms are more commonly linked to other lymphoproliferative disorders or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL)
Choice D rationale:
Difficulty breathing is not a primary symptom of Hodgkin's lymphoma.
While it is possible for HL to cause enlarged lymph nodes in the mediastinum, leading to compression of the airways, this is not a common presenting symptom.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
When assessing a patient with lymphoma, it is crucial to gather information about the characteristics of their symptoms.
Lymphoma symptoms can vary widely depending on the type, stage, and location of the cancer.
Understanding the specific symptoms, such as fatigue, night sweats, enlarged lymph nodes, unexplained weight loss, and itching, can help the nurse assess the severity and progression of the disease.
This information guides the healthcare team in making a diagnosis, determining the appropriate treatment plan, and monitoring the patient's response to treatment.
Choice B rationale:
"Do you have a family history of cardiovascular disease?" While family history is important for assessing the risk of various health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, it is not the primary concern when assessing a patient with lymphoma.
Lymphoma is a type of cancer, and the focus should be on gathering information related to cancer symptoms and risk factors.
Choice C rationale:
"Have you ever had surgery?" The patient's surgical history may be relevant for their overall health assessment, but it is not the top priority when assessing a patient with lymphoma.
The nurse should first focus on collecting information directly related to lymphoma symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
Choice D rationale:
"What is your favorite type of food?" The patient's food preferences are not relevant to the assessment of lymphoma.
This question does not provide essential information for evaluating the patient's condition or developing an appropriate care plan.
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