The nurse assesses a client with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Sjögren syndrome. What assessment would be most important for this client?
Abdominal assessment.
Oxygen saturation.
Breath sounds.
Visual acuity.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Abdominal assessment is less critical in RA and Sjögren syndrome, as these conditions primarily affect joints and exocrine glands, respectively. Gastrointestinal issues may occur with RA medications (e.g., NSAIDs), but they are not the primary concern compared to ocular complications.
Choice B reason: Oxygen saturation is not directly impacted by RA or Sjögren syndrome unless secondary complications like interstitial lung disease (rare in RA) are present. It is less relevant than ocular assessments for Sjögren syndrome’s hallmark dry eye complications.
Choice C reason: Breath sounds may be assessed in RA for rare pulmonary complications, but Sjögren syndrome primarily causes sicca symptoms (dry eyes and mouth). Respiratory issues are not the primary concern, making this less critical than ocular assessment.
Choice D reason: Sjögren syndrome causes reduced tear production, leading to dry eyes, which can result in corneal damage, infections, or vision loss. Assessing visual acuity is critical to detect early ocular complications, making it the most important assessment for this client’s condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Stopping AEDs when seizures stop is incorrect, as it risks rebound seizures due to unopposed neuronal excitability. Most patients require long-term therapy to maintain seizure control, especially in chronic epilepsy, guided by neurological evaluation.
Choice B reason: AED therapy is often lifelong for chronic epilepsy, as seizures result from persistent neuronal hyperexcitability. Maintaining therapeutic drug levels prevents recurrence, as the underlying neurological predisposition remains, requiring continuous management to stabilize brain activity.
Choice C reason: Consistent dosing maintains steady-state AED levels, preventing subtherapeutic concentrations that could trigger seizures. Fluctuations in drug levels disrupt neuronal stabilization, increasing seizure risk, making adherence to dosing schedules critical for effective epilepsy control.
Choice D reason: Skipping doses due to adverse effects is dangerous, as it lowers AED levels, increasing seizure risk. Adverse effects should be managed by consulting the provider to adjust doses or switch medications, not by skipping doses.
Choice E reason: Abruptly discontinuing AEDs can cause rebound seizures due to sudden loss of neuronal stabilization, leading to excitotoxicity. Gradual tapering under medical supervision is required to minimize withdrawal-induced seizures, making this a critical teaching point.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: The maximum daily dose of acetaminophen for adults is typically 4000 mg to avoid hepatotoxicity. A statement indicating 5000 mg suggests a misunderstanding, as exceeding 4000 mg increases the risk of liver damage due to the accumulation of toxic metabolites like N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine, which depletes glutathione.
Choice B reason: Regular liver function tests are recommended for clients on long-term acetaminophen to monitor for hepatotoxicity, as the drug is metabolized by the liver. This statement shows correct understanding, as it acknowledges the need to assess liver enzymes like ALT and AST for potential damage.
Choice C reason: Checking other medications for acetaminophen content is crucial to prevent unintentional overdose, which can lead to acute liver failure. This statement reflects proper understanding, as combination drugs (e.g., cold remedies) often contain acetaminophen, contributing to cumulative toxicity if not monitored.
Choice D reason: Using topical patches or creams for osteoarthritis pain is a valid adjunctive therapy. These deliver localized relief (e.g., NSAIDs or capsaicin) without systemic effects, complementing acetaminophen’s action. This statement indicates correct understanding of multimodal pain management strategies.
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