An older adult is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
What problems should the nurse expect to address in this client’s home health care plan? Select all that apply.

Answer and explanation

The correct answer is C.

Choice A rationale

Patches of round lesions on both lower legs could be a sign of a skin condition such as ringworm. However, this condition is typically not urgent and can be treated with over-the- counter antifungal creams.

Choice B rationale

Red ring-shaped lesions with normal skin in the center could be a sign of ringworm. While this condition should be treated, it is not typically considered urgent.

Choice C rationale

Itchy, red, scaly patches with blisters that are draining could be a sign of a serious skin infection such as cellulitis. This condition can spread quickly and become serious if not treated promptly, so it should be prioritized for immediate intervention.

Choice D rationale

Several irritated circular bald, flaky scalp patches could be a sign of a scalp condition such as tinea capitis. While this condition should be treated, it is not typically considered urgent.

Answer and explanation

The correct answers are Choices B, C, D, and E.

Choice A rationale

Encouraging the client to “keep doing whatever you are doing” is not an appropriate intervention for a client with a blood pressure reading of 138/80 mm Hg. This blood pressure reading is considered elevated and could indicate pre-hypertension. Therefore, the nurse should assess the client’s lifestyle and other risk factors for hypertension, ask the client about any current antihypertensive medications, obtain another blood pressure reading to verify the first reading, and recommend further evaluation for possible pre-hypertension.

Choice B rationale

Assessing the client’s lifestyle and other risk factors for hypertension is an important intervention for a client with a blood pressure reading of 138/80 mm Hg. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, physical activity, alcohol consumption, and tobacco use, can significantly influence

blood pressure levels. Therefore, the nurse should assess these factors and provide appropriate education and interventions.

Choice C rationale

Asking the client about any current antihypertensive medications is an important intervention for a client with a blood pressure reading of 138/80 mm Hg. The client may be taking medications that could affect their blood pressure. Therefore, the nurse should ask about these medications and consider their potential impact on the client’s blood pressure.

Choice D rationale

Obtaining another blood pressure reading to verify the first reading is an important intervention for a client with a blood pressure reading of 138/80 mm Hg. Blood pressure can fluctuate throughout the day and can be influenced by various factors, such as stress, physical activity, and caffeine consumption. Therefore, the nurse should obtain another reading to confirm the initial measurement.

Choice E rationale

Recommending further evaluation for possible pre-hypertension is an important intervention for a client with a blood pressure reading of 138/80 mm Hg. A blood pressure reading of 138/80 mm Hg is considered elevated and could indicate pre-hypertension. Therefore, the nurse should recommend further evaluation to confirm this diagnosis and determine appropriate treatment.