A nurse is providing teaching for a client who has a new application of a long leg cast. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Keep the casted leg flat for the first 24 hr.
Report any drainage from the casted leg.
Apply a heating pad to the casted leg.
Use a cotton-tip applicator to relieve itching inside the cast.
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. Keep the casted leg flat for the first 24 hr: The casted leg should not be kept flat for the first 24 hours. Elevating the leg above the heart is important to reduce swelling and promote circulation. Keeping it flat could increase swelling and discomfort.
B. Report any drainage from the casted leg: It is important to report any drainage from the cast, as it could indicate infection or complications, such as a wound underneath the cast. Drainage, especially if it is blood-tinged or excessive, requires prompt evaluation.
C. Apply a heating pad to the casted leg: Applying a heating pad is not recommended as it could increase swelling or cause burns. It is important to keep the cast cool and dry and avoid applying heat, which could affect the skin or underlying tissue.
D. Use a cotton-tip applicator to relieve itching inside the cast: Using a cotton-tip applicator can be harmful because it might push debris deeper into the cast, increasing the risk of infection or injury.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A,B"},"B":{"answers":"A,B"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"A,B"},"E":{"answers":"A"}}
Explanation
Rationale:
- Skin turgor: In DKA, dehydration is a common result due to fluid loss from excessive urination and hyperglycemia. Decreased skin turgor, or slight tenting, is an indicator of dehydration. HHS is characterized by severe hyperglycemia and profound dehydration, leading to significant fluid deficits and impaired skin turgor.
- Blood glucose greater than expected reference range: Both DKA and HHS present with elevated blood glucose levels. The client's blood glucose level of 468 mg/dL is higher than the expected range. However, blood glucose levels tend to be much higher in HHS, sometimes exceeding 1000 mg/dL, while DKA usually ranges between 250–600 mg/dL.
- Blood pH: A blood pH of 7.30 is low and indicative of acidosis, which is a hallmark of DKA. In DKA, the body produces ketones as a byproduct of fat metabolism, which causes the blood pH to drop, leading to metabolic acidosis. HHS typically does not cause significant acidosis, and pH is generally within normal limits.
- Creatinine greater than expected reference range: Elevated creatinine levels suggest kidney impairment, which is common in DKA and HHS due to severe dehydration and osmotic diuresis. Dehydration significantly impairs renal perfusion and function, leading to elevated creatinine and BUN levels.
- Urine ketones: Ketones form when the body starts breaking down fat for energy due to a lack of insulin, which is characteristic of DKA. In HHS, the body does not typically produce significant amounts of ketones, as some insulin is still present and inhibiting fat metabolism.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "Initiate venous access with a 21-gauge needle." For blood transfusions, it is recommended to use a larger gauge needle, 18-20 gauge, to allow for proper blood flow and reduce the risk of hemolysis. A 21-gauge needle is too small for optimal transfusion.
B. "Obtain the client's first set of vital signs 1 hr after initiating the transfusion." The first set of vital signs should be obtained immediately before starting the transfusion, and then monitored every 15 minutes to detect any early signs of a transfusion reaction.
C. "Administer the unit of packed RBCs over 1 hr." The unit of packed RBCs should be administered over 4 hours to reduce the risk of transfusion reactions and allow for optimal oxygen-carrying capacity. Infusing blood too quickly can cause complications such as volume overload or reactions.
D. "Use Y tubing with 0.9% sodium chloride when administering the transfusion." Y tubing is commonly used for blood transfusions to allow for the infusion of normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) alongside the blood product. This helps maintain the flow of the transfusion and reduces the risk of clot formation while flushing the line.
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