The client has developed graft versus host disease (GVHD) during treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The client has a generalized pruritic rash on the trunk and the extremities. What nursing measures should the nurse use to address this problem?
Apply bacitracin liberally to the affected areas
Request a medical prescription for diphenhydramine or hydroxyzine
Instruct client to shower with cool water and use a mild soap
Clip fingernails and encourage the use of prescribed lotions
Correct Answer : B,C,D
A. Bacitracin is an antibiotic ointment typically used to prevent or treat bacterial infections in minor cuts and scrapes. It is not appropriate for treating a pruritic rash associated with GVHD. The rash may not be due to an infection but rather an immune response, so using bacitracin would not address the underlying issue.
B. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and hydroxyzine are antihistamines that can help alleviate itching and provide relief from pruritus. Requesting a prescription for one of these medications is an appropriate response to manage the symptoms of GVHD.
C. Showering with cool water can soothe irritated skin and reduce itching. Using mild soap helps to avoid further irritation or dryness that harsher soaps can cause. This intervention supports skin care and helps manage pruritus effectively.
D. Clipping fingernails can help prevent skin damage from scratching, which could lead to secondary infections. Encouraging the use of prescribed lotions can help keep the skin moisturized and alleviate dryness, further addressing the pruritus associated with GVHD.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. This statement is not advisable. While it is essential to avoid strenuous activity initially, gentle arm exercises and range-of-motion activities are generally encouraged as soon as possible to promote circulation and help prevent lymphedema. Immobilization can actually increase the risk of lymphedema.
B. This intervention is not recommended for preventing lymphedema. Sleeping on the side of the surgery (in this case, the left side) can put pressure on the affected arm and may not promote proper lymphatic drainage. Clients are often advised to sleep on their back or to position themselves in a way that does not compress the affected arm.
C. This intervention can provide temporary relief if there is swelling or discomfort, but it does not effectively prevent lymphedema. While cool compresses might help reduce inflammation, they are not a primary measure for lymphedema prevention.
D. This is the most effective intervention for preventing lymphedema. Elevating the affected arm helps facilitate lymphatic drainage and reduces the risk of fluid accumulation. Keeping the arm elevated above heart level encourages proper circulation and helps manage swelling.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. This option is primarily aimed at promoting lung expansion and preventing atelectasis (collapse of the lung). While it's an important post-operative intervention, it does not directly reduce the risk of embolic events related to venous thromboembolism.
B. Reporting significant pain (8/10) may indicate complications such as infection or improper healing, but it does not directly relate to reducing the risk of embolic events. While managing pain is important for recovery, simply reporting it does not contribute to preventing VTEs.
C. Assessing popliteal pulses is part of a thorough circulatory assessment, but it mainly focuses on blood flow to the lower extremities rather than preventing embolic events. It can help identify existing DVT but does not actively reduce the risk of embolism.
D. This statement is true and is the best choice for decreasing the risk of an embolic event. Early ambulation promotes venous return, improves circulation, and significantly lowers the risk of DVT and pulmonary embolism in post-operative patients. Encouraging patients to get out of bed and move around as soon as they are stable is a key nursing intervention in post-operative care.
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