A community health nurse is reviewing the levels of disease prevention. Which of the following activities is an example of tertiary prevention?

Choice A reason:

A decrease in heart rate is a key indicator of adequate fluid resuscitation in burn patients. When a patient is adequately hydrated, the heart does not need to work as hard to pump blood, leading to a lower heart rate. This is because fluid resuscitation helps restore blood volume, improving cardiac output and reducing the strain on the heart. Normal heart rate ranges for adults are typically between 60-100 beats per minute.

Choice B reason:

While blood pressure is an important parameter to monitor, a decrease in blood pressure is not an indication of adequate fluid replacement. In fact, adequate fluid resuscitation should help maintain or increase blood pressure to normal levels. Low blood pressure could indicate hypovolemia or inadequate fluid resuscitation3. Normal blood pressure ranges are generally considered to be around 120/80 mmHg.

Choice C reason:

A decrease in urine output is not a sign of adequate fluid resuscitation. On the contrary, adequate fluid replacement should result in an increase in urine output as the kidneys receive sufficient blood flow to filter and excrete waste products. Urine output is a critical marker for assessing fluid balance, with normal output being about 0.5-1 mL/kg/hr.

Choice D reason:

A decrease in weight is not an immediate indicator of adequate fluid resuscitation. Weight changes can occur over a longer period and are influenced by various factors, including fluid shifts, edema, and overall fluid balance. In the acute phase of burn management, more immediate indicators like heart rate and urine output are more reliable.

Choice A reason: I may have a dry mouth while taking this medication

Dry mouth is a common side effect of chlorpromazine, which is an antipsychotic medication used to treat various mental health conditions. This side effect occurs because chlorpromazine can reduce saliva production. Patients should be advised to maintain good oral hygiene and stay hydrated to manage this symptom.

Choice B reason: This medication may cause me to urinate frequently

Frequent urination is not a typical side effect of chlorpromazine. Instead, chlorpromazine can cause urinary retention, which is the inability to empty the bladder completely. Therefore, this statement does not indicate a correct understanding of the medication’s side effects.

Choice C reason: This medication will help me stop smoking

Chlorpromazine is not used to help people stop smoking. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychotic disorders. Medications specifically designed to aid smoking cessation include nicotine replacement therapies and other drugs like varenicline or bupropion.

Choice D reason: I should expect flu-like symptoms while taking this medication

Flu-like symptoms are not commonly associated with chlorpromazine. While some side effects can mimic flu symptoms, such as fatigue or muscle aches, they are not typical and should be reported to a healthcare provider if they occur. This statement does not reflect a correct understanding of the medication’s expected side effects.