A client with oral cancer is receiving radiotherapy (RT) prior to surgery. Which intervention should the nurse teach the client to implement in managing mucositis related to RT?

Place chin down and tilt head for dyspahgia during meals.

Normal saline mouth rinses as swish and spit after meals and bedtime.

Eat high caloric meals to prevent weight loss.

Use a commercial mouthwash for xerostomia.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason: Placing the chin down and tilting the head for dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) during meals is not directly related to managing mucositis. While it may help with swallowing difficulties, it does not address the inflammation and pain caused by mucositis.

Choice B reason: Normal saline mouth rinses as swish and spit after meals and bedtime is an effective intervention for managing mucositis. Rinsing with saline helps to keep the mouth clean, reduce bacterial load, and soothe inflamed tissues. It can also help to remove food particles and debris, reducing the risk of infection and promoting healing. Saline rinses are gentle and do not contain irritating ingredients, making them ideal for sensitive oral tissues affected by mucositis.

Choice C reason: Eating high caloric meals to prevent weight loss is important for overall nutrition, especially for clients undergoing cancer treatment. However, it does not specifically address the management of mucositis. High caloric meals alone will not alleviate the pain, inflammation, and ulceration associated with mucositis. Clients with mucositis often have difficulty eating due to pain, so focusing on soothing and healing the oral tissues is a priority before addressing caloric intake.

Choice D reason: Using a commercial mouthwash for xerostomia (dry mouth) is not recommended for managing mucositis. Many commercial mouthwashes contain alcohol and other harsh ingredients that can further irritate the already inflamed mucous membranes. It is better to use a gentle and soothing rinse, such as saline, to manage mucositis symptoms and promote healing of the oral tissues.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: Administering PRN pain medication can help manage the client's discomfort, but it does not address the underlying cause of the pain. It is essential to assess and identify the source of the pain before administering pain relief. Providing pain medication without a thorough assessment may mask symptoms of a serious underlying issue.

Choice B reason: Observing the leg for swelling is important, as swelling can indicate complications such as compartment syndrome or infection. However, it is not the first action the nurse should take. While swelling is a significant sign, assessing blood flow to the extremity is more critical and should be prioritized.

Choice C reason: Assessing peripheral pulses is the correct first intervention. The presence of foot pain in a client with an external fixation device for a fractured femur could indicate compromised blood flow to the lower extremity. Assessing the peripheral pulses will help determine if there is adequate circulation. If pulses are weak or absent, it may suggest a serious vascular issue that requires immediate intervention to prevent further complications such as tissue ischemia or necrosis.

Choice D reason: Auscultating blood pressure is a routine assessment but does not directly address the immediate concern of left foot pain in this scenario. Blood pressure assessment is important for overall health monitoring but is not the priority when dealing with a possible vascular complication in the affected limb. Ensuring adequate blood flow to the extremity takes precedence.

A. Polyuria and excessive thirst B. Serum sodium of 185 mEq/L (185 mmol/L) C. Apical heart rate of 110 beats per minute D. Dry skin with inelastic turgor

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Polyuria and excessive thirst are classic symptoms of diabetes insipidus and indicate the body's inability to retain water due to a lack of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). While these symptoms need to be managed, they are not immediately life-threatening compared to severe hypernatremia.

Choice B reason: A serum sodium level of 185 mEq/L (185 mmol/L) indicates severe hypernatremia, which is an immediate medical emergency. Severe hypernatremia can lead to neurological symptoms such as confusion, seizures, and even coma due to the osmotic shift of water out of brain cells. Immediate intervention is required to correct the sodium imbalance and prevent serious complications.

Choice C reason: An apical heart rate of 110 beats per minute is indicative of tachycardia, which can be associated with dehydration and the body's response to maintain cardiac output. While it is a concern, it does not take precedence over the need to address severe hypernatremia.

Choice D reason: Dry skin with inelastic turgor is a sign of dehydration, which is a common issue in diabetes insipidus due to excessive fluid loss. While this requires attention, it is not as immediately critical as addressing severe hypernatremia, which poses a direct and urgent threat to the client's neurological and overall health.

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A client with oral cancer is receiving radiotherapy (RT) prior to surgery. Which intervention should the nurse teach the client to implement in managing mucositis related to RT?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with an external fixation device for a fractured left femur is troubled with left foot pain. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client with diabetes insipidus (DI). Which data warrants the most immediate intervention by the nurse?Reference Range: Sodium 136 to 145 mEq/L (136 to 145 mmol/L)

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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