A nurse is completing a physical assessment of a client who has early osteoarthritis. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?

 

Choice A reason:

Restricting the client’s oral fluid intake is not appropriate in this situation. Adequate fluid intake is essential to help flush out the bladder and prevent clot formation. Clients are usually encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to ensure proper hydration and urine flow.

Choice B reason:

Reminding the client that he might feel a constant urge to void is important. After a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), the presence of the catheter and continuous bladder irrigation can cause a sensation of needing to urinate. This is a common experience and reassuring the client helps manage their expectations and reduce anxiety.

Choice C reason:

Weighing the client every evening is not a standard intervention specifically related to TURP and continuous bladder irrigation. While monitoring weight can be important for overall health, it is not directly related to the immediate postoperative care of a TURP patient.

Choice D reason:

Monitoring the client’s urine output every 6 hours is important, but it should be done more frequently in the immediate postoperative period. Continuous bladder irrigation requires close monitoring to ensure that the irrigation fluid is flowing properly and that there are no blockages or complications.

Choice A reason: Tell the client to expect dark stools following chemotherapy

Dark stools are not a common side effect of chemotherapy. This symptom is more often associated with gastrointestinal bleeding or the use of certain medications, such as iron supplements or bismuth-containing compounds. Chemotherapy can cause a range of side effects, but dark stools are not typically one of them. Therefore, it is not necessary to inform the client to expect this symptom.

Choice B reason: Have the client swish with commercial mouthwash before therapy

While maintaining oral hygiene is important during chemotherapy, using a commercial mouthwash before therapy is not specifically recommended. Some commercial mouthwashes contain alcohol or other irritants that can exacerbate oral mucositis, a common side effect of chemotherapy. Instead, clients are often advised to use a gentle, alcohol-free mouthwash or a saline rinse to maintain oral hygiene and prevent infections.

Choice C reason: Administer an antiemetic prior to the procedure

Administering an antiemetic prior to chemotherapy is a standard practice to prevent nausea and vomiting, which are common side effects of many chemotherapeutic agents. Antiemetics help to improve the client’s comfort and adherence to the treatment regimen by reducing these distressing symptoms. This proactive approach is crucial in managing the side effects of chemotherapy and ensuring that the client can tolerate the treatment.

Choice D reason: Have the client floss 4 times daily

Flossing is an important part of oral hygiene, but flossing 4 times daily is excessive and can cause irritation or damage to the gums, especially in clients undergoing chemotherapy who may have a higher risk of oral mucositis and bleeding. It is generally recommended to floss once daily and to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to maintain oral health without causing additional trauma.