A patient with gouty arthritis is experiencing tenderness and swelling in the right ankle and big toe. The nurse notes that the inflammation extends above the ankle area.
The patient has been prescribed colchicine and indomethacin. What should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
Consume high-protein foods to reach an ideal body weight.
Drink at least eight cups (1920 mL) of water each day.
Use an electric heating pad when the pain is severe.
Encourage active range of motion exercises to prevent stiffness.
The Correct Answer is B
Gouty arthritis is a form of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, causing severe pain and inflammation. Drinking plenty of water can help to flush the uric acid out of the body, reducing the risk of crystal formation and subsequent inflammation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Checking the fingerstick glucose level is an immediate action that the nurse should take when a patient with type 2 diabetes reports feeling weak and jittery. These symptoms could indicate hypoglycemia, a condition characterized by low blood sugar levels.
Choice B rationale
Assessing skin temperature and moisture can help the nurse determine if the patient is sweating, a common symptom of hypoglycemia.
Choice C rationale
Administering a PRN dose of regular insulin is not the appropriate action if the patient is experiencing symptoms of hypoglycemia. Insulin would further lower the patient’s blood sugar levels, potentially worsening their condition.
Choice D rationale
Documenting anxiety on the surgical checklist may not be immediately helpful in addressing the patient’s current symptoms. While it’s important to document all relevant information, the nurse’s immediate focus should be on assessing and managing the patient’s symptoms.
Choice E rationale
Measuring pulse and blood pressure can provide important information about the patient’s cardiovascular status. Hypoglycemia can cause tachycardia and potentially hypotension, so these vital signs should be monitored.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Guillain-Barre syndrome is a disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves, causing weakness and tingling, usually starting in the legs and hands. A loss of sensation, especially at the T-8 spinal level, could indicate that the syndrome is progressing, potentially leading to paralysis. This would require immediate intervention by the nurse to prevent further complications.
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