The home health nurse is assessing an older client who lives alone. The client reports being troubled by constipation. Which additional information should the nurse obtain to formulate a plan of care? (Select all that apply.)
Current prescribed and over-the-counter medications.
Next scheduled visit with healthcare provider.
Methods currently used to treat constipation.
Daily food and fluid intake.
Level of physical activity and exercise.
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E
Certain medications can contribute to constipation as a side effect. Reviewing the client's medication list will help identify any potential medications that may be causing or exacerbating constipation.
Understanding the client's current approach to managing constipation, such as dietary changes, laxative use, or other remedies, will provide insight into their self-care practices and effectiveness of current interventions.
Diet plays a crucial role in bowel regularity. Assessing the client's dietary habits, including fiber intake and hydration, can help identify potential factors contributing to constipation.
Physical activity and exercise promote bowel regularity by stimulating intestinal motility. Evaluating the client's level of physical activity and exercise routine can provide information on their overall mobility and potential impact on bowel function.
The next scheduled visit with the healthcare provider may be important for the overall management of the client's health but may not be directly related to formulating a plan of care specifically for constipation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The Ortolani maneuver is a physical examination technique used to assess for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in newborns. During the maneuver, the nurse gently abducts the infant's hips and applies gentle pressure to detect any instability or "click" at the hip joint. A positive Ortolani maneuver, where a click or clunk is felt or heard, can indicate the presence of a hip dislocation or dysplasia.
Asymmetrical buttocks can be a sign of hip dysplasia in newborns, and a positive Ortolani maneuver is an important finding that suggests a potential hip joint problem. Reporting this assessment test result to the healthcare provider allows for further evaluation and appropriate management of the newborn's hip condition.

The Plumb line test, which assesses fetal position curvature, is not directly related to hip dysplasia and may not be significant in this context.
The Babinski test, which reveals fanning out of the toes, is used to assess the integrity of the infant's neurological system and is not specific to hip dysplasia.
The Moro test, also known as the startle response, is a reflex assessment used to evaluate the newborn's neurological and sensory function. While it is important to assess the overall neurological status of the newborn, the Moro test is not specific to hip dysplasia.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
In this situation, the client has a fingerstick glucose level of 35 mg/dL (1.94 mmol/L) and is alert but diaphoretic. The charge nurse should take the following action:
Give the client a glass of orange juice.
A glucose level of 35 mg/dL (1.94 mmol/L) is considered significantly low (hypoglycemia), and the client's symptoms of diaphoresis indicate that the low glucose level is likely causing the symptoms. Providing the client with a glass of orange juice or another source of fast-acting carbohydrate is appropriate to quickly raise the blood sugar level and alleviate the symptoms of hypoglycemia.
Collecting a blood sample for hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is not necessary in this acute situation. HbA1c reflects the average blood glucose level over the past 2-3 months and is used to assess long-term glycemic control in clients with diabetes. It does not provide immediate information or guide immediate interventions for acute hypoglycemia.
Notifying the healthcare provider is not the first action to take in this situation. The client's low glucose level can be promptly addressed by administering a source of fast-acting carbohydrate, such as orange juice. If the client's symptoms persist or worsen despite appropriate intervention, or if there are other concerning factors, then notifying the healthcare provider would be appropriate.
Assessing the client for polyuria (excessive urination) and polyphagia (excessive hunger) is important in the overall management of diabetes, but it is not the immediate action to take in this acute situation of hypoglycemia. The priority at this time is to address the low blood sugar level and relieve the client's symptoms.
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