A nurse is caring for a 15-year-old adolescent who has cellulitis of the left lower calf.
The nurse is assessing the adolescent 24 hr after the initial visit. How should the nurse interpret the findings?
For each finding, click to specify whether the finding is an indication of potential improvement or an indication of potential worsening condition. There must be at least 1 selection in every row. There does not need to be a selection in every column.
Temperature
WBC count
Weight-bearing ability on the affected leg
Wound assessment
The Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"B"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"B"}}
Temperature: The temperature decreased from 38.8° C (101.8° F) to 37.6° C (99.7° F), which indicates a potential improvement in the infection response as the body temperature is coming down.
WBC count: The WBC count increased slightly from 14,000/mm³ to 15,000/mm³, which is still elevated compared to the normal range (5,000 to 10,000/mm³). This suggests that the body is still responding to infection and could indicate a worsening condition if the trend continues or remains elevated.
Weight-bearing ability on the affected leg: The improvement in weight-bearing ability suggests that the condition of the leg is improving. This indicates that the condition is improving as the pain or swelling may have decreased.
Wound assessment: The wound culture is still pending, and although there is no specific description provided, a pending culture and the general condition of the wound (which can be assessed for redness, warmth, or exudate) might still indicate a worsening condition if there is continued inflammation or signs of spreading cellulitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I will seal nonwashable items in a plastic bag for 1 week." Nonwashable items (e.g., stuffed animals, pillows) should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least 2 weeks, not just 1 week, to ensure all lice and nits die.
B. "I will place hairbrushes, combs, and hair accessories in boiling water for 10 minutes." Boiling these items in water for at least 5–10 minutes effectively kills lice and nits.
C. "I will wash my child's clothing and bedding using a double rinse." Clothing and bedding should be washed in hot water (at least 130°F or 54°C) and dried on high heat, but a double rinse is not necessary.
D. "I will use the medicated shampoo on my child's hair daily for 3 days." Medicated lice shampoos should be used once, followed by a repeat application in 7–10 days if needed. Daily use is not recommended due to potential toxicity and irritation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I wish I knew what I did to cause my child to be sick." This statement reflects self-blame and guilt, which are signs of poor coping.
B. "I saw on the internet that there's a new treatment option." This demonstrates hope and proactive coping, as the guardian is seeking information and exploring options.
C. "I don't want my family to know about my child's diagnosis." Avoiding support from family may indicate denial or isolation, which are maladaptive coping strategies.
D. "I am not sure how to care for my dying child." Expressing uncertainty about caregiving suggests distress and a need for additional support and education, rather than positive adjustment.
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