A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who has a prescription for intermittent heat therapy for a foot injury. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a contraindication for heat therapy?
Abdominal aortic aneurysm
Phlebitis
Osteoarthritis
Peripheral neuropathy
The Correct Answer is D
A. Abdominal aortic aneurysm. While an abdominal aortic aneurysm is a serious vascular condition, it is not directly affected by localized heat therapy to an extremity such as the foot. However, heat should still be used cautiously near major vascular abnormalities.
B. Phlebitis. Heat therapy is often used to reduce inflammation and promote circulation in conditions like phlebitis. Although care must be taken, it is not an absolute contraindication and may actually be prescribed in some mild cases under supervision.
C. Osteoarthritis. Heat therapy is commonly used for osteoarthritis to relax muscles, improve joint mobility, and alleviate stiffness and discomfort. It is considered a beneficial and appropriate treatment modality for this condition.
D. Peripheral neuropathy. Clients with peripheral neuropathy may have impaired sensation, making them unable to detect excessive heat. This puts them at high risk for burns or thermal injury, making heat therapy a contraindication for safety reasons.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"B","dropdown-group-2":"B"}
Explanation
An hCG level of 30,000 IU/L is significantly elevated and may suggest a molar pregnancy, especially when values are higher than expected for gestational age. In a molar pregnancy (hydatidiform mole), trophoblastic tissue proliferates abnormally, producing excessive hCG. This level, in combination with normal hemoglobin and hematocrit, makes other causes like spontaneous or induced abortion less likely.
Key Takeaways:
- Extremely elevated hCG levels can indicate gestational trophoblastic disease (molar pregnancy).
- Molar pregnancy is a nonviable pregnancy characterized by abnormal trophoblast proliferation.
- Normal hemoglobin and hematocrit reduce the likelihood of current bleeding or miscarriage.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"C","dropdown-group-2":"D"}
Explanation
- Dry skin and lips: This is a very common side effect of isotretinoin due to its drying effects on sebaceous glands. It is expected and manageable with regular moisturizing and is not considered an emergency.
- Increased appetite: Isotretinoin is not associated with increased appetite. Weight changes are not typical or concerning symptoms during therapy and do not warrant urgent provider notification.
- Depression: Isotretinoin has been associated with mood changes including depression, suicidal thoughts, and other psychiatric effects. These can emerge suddenly and must be reported immediately for prompt evaluation and intervention to ensure safety.
- Visual disturbances: Blurred vision or difficulty seeing, particularly at night, can indicate rare but serious complications such as increased intracranial pressure. Any change in vision during isotretinoin therapy requires immediate medical attention.
- Productive cough: This is not commonly linked with isotretinoin therapy. Unless respiratory symptoms worsen or are accompanied by fever or systemic signs, a productive cough alone is not a reason to stop treatment or alert the provider urgently.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.