The nurse examines a client's right great toe. The joint is red, edematous, and very painful with limited range of motion. The client's serum uric acid levels are elevated. Which action should the nurse tell the client to make?
Encourage fluid intake.
Measure urine output.
Splint the affected joint.
Increase intake of red meat.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Encourage fluid intake:
Encouraging fluid intake is the most appropriate action for the client experiencing gout, as it helps to promote the excretion of uric acid through urine. Increased fluid intake can help prevent the formation of urate crystals in the joints and reduce the severity and frequency of gout attacks. It is a fundamental aspect of managing gout and preventing future episodes.
B. Measure urine output:
While monitoring urine output is important for overall assessment, it is not specifically indicated in the management of acute gout attacks. Gout is primarily managed by addressing hyperuricemia and reducing inflammation in the affected joints, which is best achieved through hydration and pharmacological interventions.
C. Splint the affected joint:
Splinting the affected joint may provide some relief by immobilizing it and reducing movement, but it does not address the underlying cause of gout or promote the excretion of uric acid. Splinting is more commonly used in the management of injuries or conditions that require joint stabilization.
D. Increase intake of red meat:
Increasing intake of red meat is contraindicated in clients with gout because red meat contains high levels of purines, which can exacerbate hyperuricemia and increase the risk of gout attacks. Dietary modifications for gout typically involve reducing the consumption of foods high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, and certain seafood.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Ecchymosis refers to the discoloration of the skin resulting from bleeding underneath, typically due to bruising. While ecchymosis can occur for various reasons, the use of oral anticoagulants increases the risk of bleeding and bruising. Therefore, the nurse should further assess the client's use of oral anticoagulants to determine if it is contributing to the observed ecchymosis.
B. Works in a day care center:
Working in a day care center may expose the client to various infectious agents, but it is not directly associated with the development of ecchymosis.
C. Recently had dental surgery:
While dental surgery can sometimes result in minor bleeding and bruising, it is less likely to cause widespread ecchymosis unless there are underlying bleeding disorders or complications.
D. Adheres to a gluten-free diet:
Adhering to a gluten-free diet is not directly related to the development of ecchymosis. However, if the client has celiac disease or another condition requiring a gluten-free diet, the nurse should explore the potential for malabsorption or nutritional deficiencies, which could indirectly contribute to bleeding tendencies.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Answer: D
Rationale:
A) Tenderness:
Tenderness upon palpation is not considered a normal finding. It may indicate inflammation, injury, or other underlying conditions affecting the thoracic region. Tenderness requires further investigation to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
B) Crepitus:
Crepitus, which is a crackling or popping sensation felt under the skin, is not a normal finding. It can be associated with subcutaneous air or gas, often resulting from trauma or infection. Identifying crepitus prompts further evaluation to determine the underlying issue.
C) Thrill:
A thrill is a palpable vibration or sensation over the chest, typically felt over an area of turbulent blood flow, such as a heart murmur. It is not considered a normal finding in the thoracic region and usually indicates an abnormal cardiovascular condition that requires further assessment.
D) Non-tender:
A non-tender thoracic region is considered a normal finding. Absence of tenderness upon palpation indicates no immediate signs of inflammation or injury in the thoracic area, suggesting that the palpation findings are within the expected range of normal physical examination.
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