How will the nurse assess for flank tenderness in a patient with suspected pyelonephritis?
Percuss between the iliac crest and ribs at the midaxillary line.
Push fingers upward into the two lowest intercostal spaces.
Palpate along both sides of the lumbar vertebral column.
Strike a flat hand covering the costovertebral angle (CVA).
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Percussion between the iliac crest and ribs at the midaxillary line is not the standard method for assessing flank tenderness associated with pyelonephritis. This technique may not elicit the characteristic pain of kidney inflammation.
Choice B rationale
Pushing fingers upward into the two lowest intercostal spaces is not a specific test for flank tenderness and may not accurately assess for pyelonephritis. This action is more related to assessing the integrity of the rib cage and intercostal muscles.
Choice C rationale
Palpating along both sides of the lumbar vertebral column is not the correct method for assessing flank tenderness due to pyelonephritis. This approach is more suited for assessing the musculoskeletal structure rather than the kidneys.
Choice D rationale
Striking a flat hand over the costovertebral angle is the correct method for assessing flank tenderness in cases of suspected pyelonephritis. This technique, known as costovertebral angle tenderness, elicits pain when the kidneys are inflamed, which is a common sign of pyelonephritis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Storing the medication at room temperature is a practical instruction but does not explain the therapeutic purpose of the medication, which is essential for patient understanding.
Choice B rationale
Epoetin alfa (Procrit) is used to treat anemia associated with chronic kidney disease by supplementing erythropoietin, a hormone the damaged kidneys can no longer produce effectively. This is the most informative statement for the patient's understanding of the medication's purpose.
Choice C rationale
While epoetin alfa can improve anemia and potentially improve quality of life, it does not directly delay the need for dialysis, which is determined by overall kidney function and not solely by the presence of anemia.
Choice D rationale
Epoetin alfa does not have a role in preventing AV fistula clotting. It is specifically used to stimulate red blood cell production and has no direct effect on clotting mechanisms.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Congestive heart failure is not directly associated with an increased risk of developing acute pancreatitis. While it can contribute to overall health deterioration, it does not cause the condition.
Choice B rationale
Emphysema primarily affects the lungs and does not increase the risk of acute pancreatitis. It is a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and is unrelated to pancreatic function.
Choice C rationale
Alcohol abuse is a well-known risk factor for acute pancreatitis. It can lead to repeated episodes of inflammation in the pancreas, which can eventually become chronic and lead to acute pancreatitis.
Choice D rationale
Diabetes mellitus is a result of chronic pancreatitis or can be a comorbidity, but it is not a direct cause of acute pancreatitis. However, it can be associated with complications related to the pancreas.
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