A nurse is admitting a client to a medical-surgical unit following a fall at home.
The nurse is discussing the client’s treatment plan with a provider. For each potential provider’s prescription, specify if the potential prescription is anticipated, nonessential, or contraindicated for the client.
Administer spironolactone
Administer an IV fluid bolus
Obtain an x-ray of the right hip
Administer an iron supplement
Obtain the client’s weight
Administer supplemental oxygen
The Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"C"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"B"},"E":{"answers":"A"},"F":{"answers":"B"}}
Potential Prescription |
Anticipated |
Nonessential |
Contraindicated |
Administer spironolactone |
|
|
✅ |
Administer an IV fluid bolus |
✅ |
|
|
Obtain an x-ray of the right hip |
✅ |
|
|
Administer an iron supplement |
|
✅ |
|
Obtain the client’s weight |
✅ |
|
|
Administer supplemental oxygen |
|
✅ |
|
Choice A: Administer spironolactone
Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic used to manage heart failure and hypertension. However, the client’s potassium level is elevated at 5.3 mEq/L (normal range: 3.5 to 5 mEq/L) . Administering spironolactone could exacerbate hyperkalemia, leading to dangerous cardiac arrhythmias. Additionally, the client’s low blood pressure (89/60 mm Hg) and dehydration (indicated by dry skin and tenting) make the use of a diuretic inappropriate as it could further lower blood pressure and worsen dehydration .
Choice B: Administer an IV fluid bolus
The client presents with signs of dehydration (dry skin, tenting, low urine output) and hypotension (BP 89/60 mm Hg). An IV fluid bolus is anticipated to restore intravascular volume, improve blood pressure, and address
dehydration . This intervention is crucial to stabilize the client’s hemodynamic status and improve perfusion to vital organs .
Choice C: Obtain an x-ray of the right hip
The client reports pain in the right hip following a fall, which raises the suspicion of a fracture. An x-ray is essential to diagnose any potential fractures or dislocations, which are common in elderly patients after a fall 5.
Prompt imaging will guide appropriate management and prevent further complications .
Choice D: Administer an iron supplement
While the client has a history of iron-deficiency anemia and is on ferrous sulfate, the immediate need for iron supplementation is nonessential in the context of acute management of the fall and dehydration. The client’s hemoglobin (16 g/dL) and hematocrit (47%) are within normal ranges, indicating that anemia is currently well- managed . The focus should be on stabilizing the client’s acute condition.
Choice E: Obtain the client’s weight
Obtaining the client’s weight is anticipated as it is a critical parameter for calculating medication dosages, fluid requirements, and monitoring the client’s overall health status. Accurate weight measurement is particularly important in elderly patients with multiple comorbidities to ensure precise and safe medical management .
Choice F: Administer supplemental oxygen
The client’s oxygen saturation is 95% on room air, which is within the normal range (95-100%) . Therefore, administering supplemental oxygen is nonessential unless there is evidence of hypoxia or respiratory distress. The primary focus should be on addressing dehydration and hypotension.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Low-protein, low-potassium diet
A low-protein, low-potassium diet is not typically recommended for acute glomerulonephritis. While protein intake may need to be moderated to reduce the workload on the kidneys, potassium restriction is usually not necessary unless there is hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) present. The primary dietary focus should be on managing fluid and sodium intake to control edema and hypertension.
Choice B reason: Regular diet, no added salt
A regular diet with no added salt is a step in the right direction but may not be sufficient for managing acute glomerulonephritis with significant edema. Sodium restriction is crucial to help reduce fluid retention and control blood pressure. Therefore, a more stringent low-sodium diet is often necessary.
Choice C reason: Low-carbohydrate, low-protein diet
A low-carbohydrate, low-protein diet is not appropriate for managing acute glomerulonephritis. Carbohydrate intake does not directly impact kidney function in this context, and protein intake should be moderated rather than severely restricted. The focus should be on sodium and fluid management.
Choice D reason: Low-sodium, fluid-restricted diet
A low-sodium, fluid-restricted diet is the most appropriate choice for a client with acute glomerulonephritis and peripheral edema. Reducing sodium intake helps to minimize fluid retention and control blood pressure, while fluid restriction helps to prevent further edema and manage the workload on the kidneys. This dietary approach is essential for managing the symptoms and complications associated with acute glomerulonephritis.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Apply intermittent ice to the affected ankle for the first 48 hours
Applying ice intermittently to the affected ankle for the first 48 hours helps reduce swelling and inflammation. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the initial phase of injury management. This practice is part of the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol commonly used for sprains and strains.
Choice B reason: Wrap the affected ankle with an elasticized compression bandage
Wrapping the affected ankle with an elasticized compression bandage helps to minimize swelling and provide support to the injured area. Compression bandages should be snug but not too tight to avoid restricting blood flow. This is another component of the RICE protocol.
Choice C reason: Apply full weight-bearing on the affected ankle
Applying full weight-bearing on the affected ankle is not recommended immediately after a second-degree sprain. The ankle needs time to heal, and weight-bearing should be gradually reintroduced as pain and swelling decrease. Initially, the client should avoid putting weight on the injured ankle to prevent further damage.
Choice D reason: Elevate the affected ankle above the level of the heart
Elevating the affected ankle above the level of the heart helps reduce swelling by promoting venous return and decreasing fluid accumulation in the injured area. This is an essential part of the RICE protocol and should be done as much as possible during the first 48 hours.
Choice E reason: Apply a heating pad intermittently to the affected ankle after 48 hours
Applying a heating pad intermittently to the affected ankle after 48 hours can help increase blood flow and promote healing. Heat therapy should be used after the initial acute phase (first 48 hours) when swelling has subsided. Heat can help relax muscles and reduce stiffness in the injured area.
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