A nurse in a community clinic is caring for a client who has systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Which of the following statements by the client should the nurse determine is the priority?
"I'm concerned because I'm so tired all the time."
"I feel like I'm isolated from all my friends now."
"I've had a fever the last couple of days."
"I have a lot of questions about this disease."
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. "I'm concerned because I'm so tired all the time.": Fatigue is a common manifestation of SLE caused by chronic inflammation, anemia, or medication effects. While it impacts daily function, it is not an immediate threat compared to signs of infection, which can become life-threatening quickly in immunosuppressed clients.
B. "I feel like I'm isolated from all my friends now.": Emotional concerns like isolation are important in managing chronic illness, but they are not urgent physical issues. Addressing psychosocial health is necessary, but it does not take precedence over symptoms that may indicate infection or disease flare.
C. "I've had a fever the last couple of days.": Fever is a priority concern in clients with SLE as it may signal an active infection or disease flare. Immunosuppressive therapy increases the risk of severe infections, which can rapidly worsen if not treated promptly, making this the most urgent issue.
D. "I have a lot of questions about this disease.": Education is vital for long-term disease management and patient empowerment. However, it is not an immediate priority when signs of acute illness, such as fever, are present and require prompt clinical attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "Use salt substitutes to reduce your sodium intake.": Salt substitutes often contain potassium, which can accumulate to dangerous levels in clients with chronic kidney disease. Therefore, they should be avoided rather than recommended.
B. "Increase your fluid intake to 1,000 mL a day.": Clients on hemodialysis typically require fluid restrictions, not increases, to prevent fluid overload between dialysis sessions. Fluid allowances are individualized based on urine output and clinical status.
C. "Include phosphorus-rich foods in your diet.": Phosphorus levels tend to rise in clients with kidney failure, contributing to bone disease. These clients are advised to avoid phosphorus-rich foods like dairy, nuts, and cola beverages.
D. "Avoid food products that contain trans-fats.": Clients with chronic kidney disease are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Avoiding trans-fats, which raise LDL cholesterol and promote inflammation, supports heart health and is an appropriate dietary recommendation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Use an infusion pump to deliver the dialysate at a safe rate: Dialysate for peritoneal dialysis is typically instilled by gravity, not an infusion pump. Using a pump can create excessive pressure, increasing the risk of peritoneal damage or discomfort.
B. Report cloudy dialysate drainage to the provider: Cloudy outflow is a key sign of peritonitis, a serious complication of peritoneal dialysis. This finding should be reported immediately for prompt evaluation and treatment.
C. Warm the dialysate solution using a low power level on a microwave oven: Dialysate should not be warmed in a microwave due to the risk of uneven heating and potential damage to the peritoneal lining. A warming pad or commercial dialysate warmer is recommended to safely bring the solution to body temperature.
D. Allow the dialysate to drain over 1 to 4 hr: The dwell time (the time the dialysate stays in the peritoneal cavity) typically ranges from 30 minutes to a few hours. However, the drainage phase should usually take about 15 to 30 minutes. Allowing dialysate to drain over 1 to 4 hours would be incorrect, as this refers more to dwell time, not the drainage phase.
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