A nurse in a provider’s office is caring for a client who asks about using acupuncture to manage his osteoarthritis pain.
The nurse should identify which of the following conditions as a contraindication for receiving this treatment?
Hypertension.
Hypothyroidism.
Obesity.
Herpes zoster.
The Correct Answer is D
Answer and explanation.
The correct answer is choice D. Herpes zoster is a contraindication for receiving acupuncture treatment because it is an infectious skin disorder that can be transmitted by needles or contact with the affected area. Acupuncture should not be performed on areas of skin that are inflamed, ulcerated, or have sensory deficit.
Choice A is wrong because hypertension is not a contraindication for acupuncture. However, some caution is advised when needling points that may lower blood pressure, such as LI 4, LI 11, ST 36, and SP 6.
Choice B is wrong because hypothyroidism is not a contraindication for acupuncture. In fact, some studies suggest that acupuncture may have beneficial effects on thyroid function and symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Choice C is wrong because obesity is not a contraindication for acupuncture.
Acupuncture may help with weight loss by regulating appetite, metabolism, and hormones.
Some of the absolute contraindications for acupuncture include pregnancy (especially certain points that may induce labor or abortion), medical and surgical emergencies, malignant tumors, bleeding disorders, and use of a demand pacemaker. Some of the relative contraindications include drug or alcohol intoxication, lack of consent, immune deficiency, abnormal heart valves, and fear of needles.
Normal ranges for blood pressure are 120/80 mmHg or lower for systolic and diastolic pressure respectively.
Normal ranges for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) are 0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L.
Normal ranges for body mass index (BMI) are 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m2.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This instruction will help the client to prevent venous stasis and thrombosis, which are common postoperative complications. Range-of-motion exercises promote blood circulation and prevent muscle atrophy and contractures.
Choice B. “Use an incentive spirometer every 4 hours.” is wrong because it is not related to promoting circulation, but rather to improving lung expansion and preventing atelectasis and pneumonia. Using an incentive spirometer is also important for postoperative clients, but it does not address the question.
Choice C. “Remain on bed rest for 24 hours following the procedure.” is wrong because it is the opposite of promoting circulation.
Bed rest increases the risk of venous stasis, thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. Postoperative clients should be encouraged to ambulate as soon as possible, unless contraindicated.
Choice D. “Place a pillow under your knees while in bed.” is wrong because it also impairs circulation and increases the risk of thrombosis.
Placing a pillow under the knees can cause pressure on the popliteal veins and reduce blood flow. Postoperative clients should avoid this position and keep their legs in a neutral or slightly elevated position.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Wound dehiscence can lead to infection, bleeding, and evisceration (protrusion of internal organs through the incision). The nurse should report this finding to the provider immediately and cover the wound with a sterile dressing moistened with sterile saline solution.
Choice A is wrong because mild swelling under the sutures near the incisional line is a normal finding in the early stages of wound healing. It does not indicate infection or dehiscence unless accompanied by other signs such as redness, warmth, pain, or purulent drainage.
Choice B is wrong because crusting of exudate on the incisional line is also a normal finding that indicates the formation of a scab.
A scab protects the wound from infection and helps it heal faster. The nurse should not remove the scab unless instructed by the provider.
Choice D is wrong because pink-tinged coloration on the incisional line is another normal finding that shows healthy granulation tissue.
Granulation tissue is new tissue that fills in the wound and helps it close. It is usually pink or red and moist.
The nurse should follow these general tips for postoperative abdominal incision care:
- Always wash your hands before and after touching your incisions.
- Inspect your incisions and wounds every day for signs your healthcare provider has told you are red flags or concerning.
- Look for any bleeding.
If the incisions start to bleed, apply direct and constant pressure to the incisions.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing that might rub on your incisions.
- Try not to scratch any itchy wounds.
- You can shower starting 48 hours after your operation but no scrubbing or soaking of the abdominal wounds in a tub.
- After the initial dressing from the operating room is removed, you can leave the wound open to air unless there is drainage or you feel more comfortable with soft gauze covering the wound.
- Surgical glue (Indermil) will fall off over a period of up to 2-3 weeks.
Do not put any topical ointments or lotions on the incisions.
- Do not rub over the incisions with a washcloth or towel.
- No tub baths, hot tubs, or swimming until evaluated at your clinic appointment.
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