A nurse is assessing an elderly patient who has just been admitted to the medical-surgical unit with significant abdominal ascites.
The patient is alert and oriented, walks independently at home, and usually uses a cane but forgot to bring it to the hospital.Which measures should the nurse prioritize?
Implementing a bleeding precaution protocol
Implementing a skin safety protocol
Implementing a sodium restriction diet
Implementing a fall risk protocol
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While bleeding precautions are important in certain conditions, they may not be the priority for a patient with significant abdominal ascites. Ascites, the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, is often caused by liver disease such as cirrhosis.
Choice B rationale
Skin safety protocols are important for all patients, but they may not be the priority in this case. Ascites can cause discomfort and other complications, but it does not directly cause skin problems.
Choice C rationale
A sodium restriction diet can be beneficial for patients with ascites, as it can help reduce fluid accumulation. However, this measure may not be the priority in this case.
Choice D rationale
Implementing a fall risk protocol should be prioritized. The patient’s significant abdominal ascites could affect their balance and mobility, increasing their risk of falls. Furthermore, the patient usually uses a cane for support but forgot to bring it to the hospital, further increasing their fall risk.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Fluid retention is not typically associated with hyperparathyroidism. Hyperparathyroidism is a condition in which the parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone, leading to high levels of calcium in the blood.
Choice B rationale
Impaired skin integrity is not typically associated with hyperparathyroidism.
Choice C rationale
Pathologic fractures are a potential complication of hyperparathyroidism. The condition can lead to osteoporosis due to loss of calcium from the bones, increasing the risk of fractures.
Choice D rationale
Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is not typically associated with hyperparathyroidism.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Free T4 levels are typically low in primary hypothyroidism, not elevated.
Choice B rationale
Serum T3 levels are also typically low in primary hypothyroidism.
Choice C rationale
In primary hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone, leading to an elevated TSH level as the pituitary gland tries to stimulate more hormone production.
Choice D rationale
Serum calcium levels are not directly affected by primary hypothyroidism.
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