A nurse is caring for an older adult patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The patient always remains in a sitting position to help them breathe more easily. Based on this information, what area on the patient's body should be frequently assessed for skin breakdown?
Elbows and behind the ears
Coccyx and back of the skull
Heels and trochanter
Sacrum and ischium
The Correct Answer is D
A. Elbows and behind the ears: These areas are not primary pressure points in a seated position.
B. Coccyx and back of the skull: The coccyx is a pressure point when lying down, but this patient is sitting most of the time.
C. Heels and trochanter: Heels are at risk in supine patients, but this patient is primarily sitting.
D. Sacrum and ischium: The sacrum and ischium (sit bones) bear the most pressure in a seated position, making them highly vulnerable to skin breakdown.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. It is painful to sit on a bedpan. Discomfort may be a factor, but pain alone does not explain the difficulty in having a bowel movement.
B. The position encourages the Valsalva maneuver. The Valsalva maneuver (straining against a closed airway) can occur in any position, but posture is the primary problem here.
C. The position does not facilitate downward pressure. The seated position allows for gravity and proper abdominal muscle engagement, making defecation easier. Lying down does not facilitate intra-abdominal pressure.
D. The cause is unknown and requires further study. The relationship between position and defecation is well understood in physiology.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Call for assistance. While calling for help may be necessary if the patient becomes unresponsive or falls, the priority action is to ensure their safety immediately by helping them sit down.
B. Assist the patient in sitting down on the bed. The patient is experiencing dizziness upon standing, which could indicate orthostatic hypotension or another condition. The best immediate action is to help them sit down to prevent a fall or further complications.
C. Assess the vital signs for orthostatic hypotension. While assessing for orthostatic hypotension is important, it should be done after ensuring the patient is safe by sitting them down.
D. Notify the provider. The provider may need to be informed if the dizziness persists or if there is an underlying medical issue. Still, immediate intervention (sitting the patient down) takes priority before notifying the provider.
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