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
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Heberden’s nodes are bony swellings that develop at the end joints (distal interphalangeal joints) of fingers, particularly the fingers closest to the nails. They are a characteristic feature of osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease. Osteoarthritis causes the protective cartilage in the joints to wear down over time, leading to the development of these bony growths, which can be painful and limit joint movement. Therefore, discussing strategies for managing chronic pain with the patient is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take.
Choice B rationale
While checking the patient’s radial pulses and capillary refill time is a part of a comprehensive physical assessment, it is not directly related to the management of Heberden’s nodes or osteoarthritis.
Choice C rationale
Although Heberden’s nodes are a sign of osteoarthritis, they are not typically an emergency that requires immediate notification of the healthcare provider. They are a common finding in individuals with osteoarthritis and are usually managed with conservative measures such as pain management and physical therapy.
Choice D rationale
Reviewing the patient’s dietary intake of high-protein foods is not directly related to the management of Heberden’s nodes or osteoarthritis. While a balanced diet is important for overall health, it does not specifically address the pain and limited joint movement associated with Heberden’s nodes.
Correct Answer is ["125"]
Explanation
Step 1 is to convert the volume of the prescription from liters to milliliters. 1 liter is equal to 1000 mL. So, the prescription is for 1000 mL of lactated Ringer’s.
Step 2 is to divide the total volume by the total time. The prescription is to be infused over 8 hours. So, 1000 mL ÷ 8 hours = 125 mL/hr. Therefore, the nurse should program the infusion pump to deliver 125 mL/hr.
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