A nurse is caring for a client who reports experiencing alteration in sense of smell following surgery for a total laryngectomy. The nurse should address the client's concern through which of the following response?
"Your body will slowly develop an ability to smell through your stoma."
"Breathing through a stoma has altered your sense of smell."
"Your sense of smell will gradually return after several months."
"As your appetite returns, your sense of smell will also return."
The Correct Answer is B
A. "Your body will slowly develop an ability to smell through your stoma." The olfactory system relies on air passing through the nasal passages to detect scents. After a total laryngectomy, the airway is rerouted through a stoma, bypassing the nose entirely. The body does not develop an alternative way to smell through the stoma, making this statement inaccurate.
B. "Breathing through a stoma has altered your sense of smell." A total laryngectomy permanently separates the respiratory and digestive tracts, preventing air from passing through the nose, which is necessary for olfaction. As a result, clients often experience anosmia (loss of smell). This response accurately explains the reason behind the alteration in the client’s sense of smell.
C. "Your sense of smell will gradually return after several months." Unlike temporary post-surgical changes, the loss of smell after a total laryngectomy is typically permanent unless the client learns to use techniques such as the "polite yawning" method (nasal airflow-inducing maneuver) to regain some olfactory function. It does not naturally return over time.
D. "As your appetite returns, your sense of smell will also return." Appetite and sense of smell are closely linked, but appetite improvement does not restore olfaction after a laryngectomy. Since air no longer flows through the nasal passages, the ability to detect smells is significantly impaired or lost.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
A. The student's asthma is not well controlled: Being in the yellow zone indicates that the student's asthma is not well controlled and that their peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is lower than usual. This is a crucial point for the nurse to recognize, as it suggests that the student may need to adjust their management plan to prevent an exacerbation.
B. The nurse should obtain a second expiratory flow rate: While it can be helpful to reassess peak flow rates, it is not always necessary unless there is a concern about the accuracy of the initial measurement. The initial yellow zone result provides sufficient information for the nurse to take appropriate action regarding the student's asthma management.
C. The student needs to go to the hospital: Being in the yellow zone does not automatically require hospitalization. The yellow zone typically indicates that the student is experiencing some worsening of asthma symptoms but can often be managed at home with appropriate interventions. Hospitalization is usually reserved for the red zone, where severe symptoms or a significant decrease in peak flow occurs.
D. The student should use his quick-relief inhaler: This is an appropriate action for a student in the yellow zone. The yellow zone often indicates the need for the use of a quick-relief inhaler to alleviate symptoms and improve airflow. The nurse should advise the student to use their inhaler as per their asthma action plan.
E. The student's peak flow is 50% to 80% of his best peak flow: This statement accurately describes the yellow zone, where the peak flow is between 50% and 80% of the student's personal best. This information is essential for determining the appropriate response to the current asthma status and guides the nurse's actions.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Vanilla ice cream: While ice cream may be soothing for a sore throat, it is not the most nutritious option for a client with bacterial pharyngitis. Although it provides calories and can help with throat discomfort, it lacks essential nutrients that support recovery and may not help with hydration, which is critical during illness.
B. Chicken noodle soup: This option can be beneficial due to its warm temperature and potential nutritional value, including protein and hydration. However, the heat of the soup may irritate a sore throat further, especially if it is too hot. It can be a good option, but care should be taken to ensure it is at a comfortable temperature for the client.
C. Hot herbal tea: While herbal tea can provide hydration and soothing effects, it may also irritate a sore throat if served too hot. The temperature of the tea is a consideration, as consuming very hot liquids can exacerbate throat discomfort. Therefore, while it can be helpful, it may not be the best option for promoting comfort.
D. Fruit-flavored popsicles: This is the most recommended option for promoting nutrition during treatment for bacterial pharyngitis. Popsicles are cold, which can soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation. They are also hydrating, easy to swallow, and can provide some calories, making them a good choice for maintaining nutrition and comfort during recovery. This option balances soothing relief with hydration and nutrition effectively.
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