A nurse is caring for a client who has prostate cancer and has undergone a prostatectomy. Which of the following should the nurse understand as a potential complication of prostate surgery?
Testicular torsion
Erectile dysfunction
Cystitis
Paralytic ileus
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Testicular torsion is a condition where the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. It is not a typical complication following a prostatectomy. Testicular torsion is generally an acute condition that affects younger males and is unrelated to prostate surgery.
Choice B reason:
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complication after prostatectomy. The surgery can damage the nerves and blood vessels that control erections, leading to ED. While nerve-sparing techniques aim to reduce this risk, some degree of erectile dysfunction is still possible after the procedure.
Choice C reason:
Cystitis, which is inflammation of the bladder, can occur after a prostatectomy due to the use of a catheter or as a result of the surgery itself. However, it is not as common or as significant a long-term complication as erectile dysfunction.
Choice D reason:
Paralytic ileus, a temporary cessation of bowel movements, can occur after any abdominal surgery due to the manipulation of the intestines or as a side effect of anesthesia. While it can be a complication of prostatectomy, it is typically resolved within a few days to weeks after surgery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
This statement is correct. Medications for genital herpes, such as antiviral drugs, can help decrease the severity and frequency of symptoms but do not cure the infection. The herpes simplex virus remains in the body and can cause recurrent outbreaks.
Choice B reason:
This statement is incorrect and indicates a misunderstanding. Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus and cannot be treated with antibiotics, which are effective only against bacterial infections. Antiviral medications are used to treat viral infections like genital herpes.
Choice C reason:
This statement is incorrect. Genital herpes can be transmitted to a partner even when lesions are not present. The virus can be shed from the skin even without visible symptoms, a process known as asymptomatic viral shedding.
Choice D reason:
This statement is incorrect. Even after finishing a course of medication, the risk of transmitting genital herpes to a partner remains because the virus persists in the body. Safe sex practices, including the use of condoms, can help reduce the risk of transmission.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A personal trainer working with a client who has HIV is at low risk for contracting the virus. HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, sweat, or saliva. The risk would increase only if there were exposure to blood or other body fluids through an open wound or mucous membrane.
Choice B reason:
An occupational therapist working with a client who has HIV also has a low risk of contracting the virus. Similar to a personal trainer, unless there is direct exposure to blood or body fluids, the transmission risk is minimal.
Choice C reason:
A phlebotomist who collects blood from clients who have HIV is at the greatest risk among the listed individuals. Phlebotomists are healthcare professionals who are frequently exposed to blood, which is a bodily fluid that can transmit HIV if proper precautions are not taken.
Choice D reason:
A nurse who collects urine samples is at a lower risk compared to a phlebotomist. HIV is not typically transmitted through urine unless it contains blood. However, the risk is still present if there is exposure to blood-contaminated urine through cuts or mucous membranes.
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