A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has gastroenteritis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Wash hands for 10 seconds after caring for the client.
Monitor the client for manifestations of dehydration.
Use toilet paper to remove stool from the client's skin.
Administer diphenoxylate/atropine to the client.
The Correct Answer is B
A) "Wash hands for 10 seconds after caring for the client.": Proper hand hygiene is critical in preventing the spread of infections, but the recommended duration for handwashing is at least 20 seconds. This option does not specify the necessary steps to ensure effective hand hygiene.
B) "Monitor the client for manifestations of dehydration.": Older adults are at a higher risk of dehydration due to gastroenteritis, which can cause significant fluid loss through vomiting and diarrhea. Monitoring for signs of dehydration, such as dry mucous membranes, decreased skin turgor, and reduced urine output, is a priority in managing their condition and preventing complications.
C) "Use toilet paper to remove stool from the client's skin.": While keeping the client clean is important, using toilet paper might not be sufficient or gentle enough to effectively clean and protect the skin. Using appropriate cleansing methods and skin care products is better for maintaining skin integrity.
D) "Administer diphenoxylate/atropine to the client.": While this medication can help reduce diarrhea, it may not be the first action to take. In some cases, stopping diarrhea too quickly can prevent the elimination of harmful pathogens. Monitoring and addressing hydration status is more critical initially in the management of gastroenteritis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Drink 8 oz of milk when hypoglycemia develops:
While consuming a fast-acting carbohydrate is important during hypoglycemia, 8 oz of milk may not be the most effective choice. Typically, glucose tablets or juice are recommended as they provide a quicker absorption of sugar into the bloodstream.
B) Initiate a 1,400-calorie diet daily:
Caloric needs should be individualized based on the adolescent’s age, weight, activity level, and overall health. A fixed 1,400-calorie diet might not be appropriate for every adolescent and could lead to insufficient energy intake or excessive restriction.
C) Rotate the insulin injection site to a different area of the body with every other injection:
While rotating injection sites is important to prevent lipodystrophy, it is generally recommended to use different sites within the same area (such as different spots on the abdomen) rather than entirely different areas of the body with each injection. This ensures consistent absorption of insulin.
D) Keep unopened insulin refrigerated at 4.44° C (40° F):
Unopened insulin should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its potency until it is ready to be used. This temperature range ensures the insulin remains stable and effective for use.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Antimicrobial medication can decrease the severity of symptoms.: Antiviral medications, rather than antimicrobial ones, are used to reduce the severity and duration of herpes zoster (shingles). They work best when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing.
B. Postherpetic nerve pain can occur in older adult clients.: Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a common complication of herpes zoster, especially in older adults. It is characterized by persistent pain in the area where the shingles rash occurred.
C. Lesions often occur inside the oral cavity of clients who have this infection.: Herpes zoster typically causes a painful rash that appears on one side of the body, often in a band or strip, rather than inside the oral cavity. Oral lesions are more characteristic of herpes simplex virus infections.
D. Cellulitis is a common manifestation in clients who have this infection.: Cellulitis is not a typical manifestation of herpes zoster. Herpes zoster is characterized by a vesicular rash and pain along a dermatomal distribution, not by cellulitis.
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