A nurse is caring for a client who has diabetic neuropathy of the lower extremities and has a new prescription for a heating pad. The prescription reads, "Apply to the left foot for 20 min." Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Contact the provider to clarify the prescription.
Complete a Semmes Weinstein monofilament test before applying the heating pad.
Observe the skin 10 min after the start of treatment.
Apply the heating pad as prescribed by the provider.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: The nurse should contact the provider to clarify the prescription because applying heat to an area with impaired sensation can cause burns or tissue damage. The nurse should also educate the client about the risks of using heat therapy and alternative methods to relieve pain.
Choice B reason: The Semmes Weinstein monofilament test is used to assess the sensation of light touch in clients with peripheral neuropathy. The nurse should perform this test before applying any intervention that could affect the skin integrity, such as heat, cold, or compression.
Choice C reason: Observing the skin 10 min after the start of treatment is not sufficient to prevent complications from heat therapy. The nurse should monitor the skin continuously and check for signs of redness, blisters, or burns.
Choice D reason: Applying the heating pad as prescribed by the provider is not appropriate for a client with diabetic neuropathy of the lower extremities. Heat can increase blood flow and inflammation in the affected area, which can worsen the condition and increase the risk of infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect because blood glucose 98 mg/dL is within the normal range of 70 to 110 mg/dL. The nurse does not need to notify the provider for this value.
Choice B: This is incorrect because BUN 18 mg/dL is within the normal range of 10 to 20 mg/dL. The nurse does not need to notify the provider for this value.
Choice C: This is correct because hemoglobin 8.6 g/dL is below the normal range of 12 to 18 g/dL. The nurse should notify the provider for this value as it indicates anemia, which can be caused by blood loss during surgery or impaired bone marrow function.
Choice D: This is incorrect because potassium 3.5 mEq/L is within the normal range of 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. The nurse does not need to notify the provider for this value.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect. The Sims' position is not used for a colposcopy, which is a procedure that examines the cervix with a magnifying device. The client should be placed in the lithotomy position, which involves lying on the back with the legs spread and supported by stirrups.
Choice B: This is incorrect. The nurse should not insert a tampon following the procedure, as this can introduce bacteria and cause infection. The nurse should advise the client to use sanitary pads instead.
Choice C: This is correct. The nurse should instruct the client to avoid sexual intercourse until the cervix is healed, which can take up to a week. Sexual intercourse can cause bleeding, pain, and infection.
Choice D: This is incorrect. The nurse should not reinforce teaching that the procedure involves dilation of the cervix, as this is not true. A colposcopy does not require dilation of the cervix, unlike some other procedures such as endometrial biopsy or hysteroscopy.
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