A nurse is assessing a client with a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) and notes a red, swollen area on the client’s leg. Which condition is the client most likely experiencing?
Cellulitis.
Deep vein thrombosis.
Osteomyelitis.
Gout.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Cellulitis is characterized by a red, swollen, and warm area on the skin, often accompanied by fever. It is a bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissues.
Choice B rationale
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) typically presents with swelling, pain, and warmth in the affected leg but not redness and fever as primary symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Osteomyelitis involves infection of the bone, presenting with localized pain, swelling, and fever, but not typically a red, swollen area on the skin.
Choice D rationale
Gout causes joint pain, swelling, and redness, usually in the big toe, but not a red, swollen area on the leg.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Severe headache and photophobia are classic symptoms of meningitis, indicating inflammation of the meninges.
Choice B rationale
Chest pain and shortness of breath are more indicative of cardiovascular or respiratory issues, not meningitis.
Choice C rationale
Abdominal pain and diarrhea are gastrointestinal symptoms and are not typically associated with meningitis.
Choice D rationale
Joint pain and swelling are more indicative of rheumatologic conditions, not meningitis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Hypokalemia can cause muscle weakness and cramps, but it does not typically lead to severe muscle spasms causing exhaustion. The patient’s symptoms of lethargy and weakness are more likely related to electrolyte imbalances and dehydration rather than muscle spasms.
Choice B rationale
While low potassium levels can affect cellular metabolism, the primary issue here is not glycolysis. The patient’s symptoms are more consistent with dehydration and electrolyte imbalances rather than a metabolic shift to glycolysis.
Choice C rationale
Hypokalemia can cause cells to become hyperpolarized, leading to muscle weakness and decreased reflexes. However, the patient’s symptoms of lethargy and weakness are more likely due to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances rather than cellular hyperpolarization.
Choice D rationale
Hypernatremia, or high sodium levels, can cause cellular dehydration, leading to symptoms such as lethargy and weakness. The patient’s lab results and clinical presentation are consistent with hypernatremia-induced cellular dehydration, which explains his symptoms.
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