A nurse is caring for a patient who reports pain in their lower extremities following surgery. Which of the following should the nurse address first?
Consumed 35% of meals for 12 hr.
Been on bedrest for 3 days.
Last bowel movement 2 days ago.
Reports pain as 5 on a scale of 0 to 10.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
While nutrition is important for recovery, consuming 35% of meals for 12 hours is not an immediate concern. The patient’s nutritional status can be addressed after more urgent issues are resolved.
Choice B rationale
Bedrest for 3 days post-surgery is not uncommon. While prolonged bedrest can lead to complications such as deep vein thrombosis, it is not the most immediate concern in this scenario.
Choice C rationale
A last bowel movement 2 days ago is not necessarily a concern unless the patient is experiencing discomfort or other symptoms of constipation. This can be addressed after more urgent issues are resolved.
Choice D rationale
This is the correct answer. Pain in the lower extremities following surgery could indicate a serious condition such as a blood clot. It is important to address this first to rule out any serious complications.
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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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
An increase in intraocular pressure is not a cause of diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to high blood sugar levels.
Choice B rationale
While regular eye exams are important for patients with diabetes mellitus, having an eye exam every 2 years may not be sufficient for detecting and managing diabetic retinopathy. More frequent eye exams may be recommended depending on the patient’s condition.
Choice C rationale
Clouding of the lens is not a manifestation of diabetic retinopathy. This is a symptom of cataracts, not diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy affects the blood vessels in the retina, not the lens of the eye.
Choice D rationale
Seeing spots, also known as floaters, is a common symptom of diabetic retinopathy. This occurs when blood and other fluids leak into the vitreous, the clear, jelly-like substance that fills the inside of the eye.
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