Five months following treatment for herpes zoster, an older adult client tells the home health nurse of continuing to experience pain where the rash occurred. Which action should the nurse implement?
Teach the client about phantom pain symptoms.
Perform a complete mental status exam.
Determine if the client has had a shingles vaccination.
Complete an assessment of the client's pain.
The Correct Answer is D
D. Persistent pain following the resolution of herpes zoster, known as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), is a common complication, especially in older adults. PHN can cause significant discomfort and affect the client's quality of life. Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the client's pain to better understand its characteristics, severity, duration, aggravating or alleviating factors, and impact on daily activities.
A. Patient education should follow a complete assessment of the pain to ascertain the diagnosis.
B. Performing a complete mental status exam is not indicated solely based on the client's report of persistent pain from herpes zoster.
C. Determining if the client has had a shingles vaccination is important for preventive healthcare, but it is not the priority action in addressing the client's current pain concern related to PHN. The focus should be on assessing and managing the client's pain to improve their comfort and well-being.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. The client's symptoms of weakness and palpitations are suggestive of hypoglycemia, a common complication in individuals with diabetes, particularly those on glucose-lowering medications such as insulin or sulfonylureas. Excessive perspiration, also known as diaphoresis, is a classic symptom of hypoglycemia and indicates the body's response to low blood sugar levels.
A. Cold extremities can be a sign of poor peripheral circulation, which may occur in individuals with diabetes, particularly in advanced stages or in the presence of peripheral vascular disease. However, it is not as specific to the acute episode of hypoglycemia
B. Myalgia (muscle pain) in the wrists and hands is not a typical symptom of hypoglycemia.
D. Dark yellow urine may indicate dehydration, which can occur in individuals with poorly controlled diabetes or during episodes of hyperglycemia. While dehydration is a concern in diabetes management, it is not directly related to the acute episode of hypoglycemia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. One of the hallmark features of ADC is the development of cognitive impairment, including changes in memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. The change in handwriting (graphomotor impairment) is a specific neurological symptom that may indicate cognitive dysfunction and is consistent with the diagnosis of AIDS dementia.
A. This symptom suggests emotional distress or mood disturbances, which can occur in individuals with HIV/AIDS due to the psychological impact of the diagnosis and the uncertainty surrounding the disease progression. However, it is not specific to AIDS dementia
B. Increased sleepiness or hypersomnia can occur in individuals with AIDS dementia due to disruptions in sleep-wake cycles and alterations in brain function. However, increased sleepiness alone is not specific to AIDS dementia
D. Social withdrawal or isolation can occur in individuals with HIV/AIDS due to various reasons, including stigma, depression, or physical symptoms. However, it is not specific to AIDS dementia.
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