The nurse is caring for an 84-year-old female client who was brought to the emergency room by her daughter, who related that her mother has had very recent mental status changes and periods of incontinence. What condition should the nurse first suspect?
Urinary tract infection
Acute kidney failure
Septic shock
Urinary stasis
The Correct Answer is A
A. Urinary tract infection
The symptoms described, including recent mental status changes and periods of incontinence, are suggestive of a urinary tract infection (UTI) in an elderly individual. UTIs are common among older adults and can cause a variety of symptoms, including confusion, which is often the primary manifestation in the elderly population. Other symptoms can include urinary urgency, frequency, and incontinence.
B. Acute kidney failure - While acute kidney failure can cause changes in urination and mental status, it is less likely to be the primary cause of these symptoms in this scenario. UTI is a more common and immediate concern given the symptoms described.
C. Septic shock - Septic shock is a severe condition that occurs when an infection leads to a life-threatening drop in blood pressure. While septic shock can cause altered mental status, it is a critical condition that often presents with more dramatic symptoms and requires immediate intensive care management. The symptoms described are more suggestive of a UTI.
D. Urinary stasis - Urinary stasis refers to the slowing or cessation of urine flow. While urinary stasis can contribute to the development of UTIs, it is not a condition that would cause sudden and acute mental status changes and incontinence on its own. UTI is a more likely cause of the symptoms described.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. McBurney's point on the abdomen: McBurney's point is a location in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen that is significant in the assessment for appendicitis. It is not relevant to the assessment of pyelonephritis, which is a kidney infection.
B. Psoas sign at the knee: The psoas sign is a test for appendicitis, not pyelonephritis. It involves the patient lying on their back and lifting their right leg against resistance. If this movement causes pain in the lower right abdomen, it could indicate irritation of the psoas muscle due to an inflamed appendix.
C. Rovsing's Sign on the abdomen: Rovsing's sign is also a test for appendicitis. It involves palpating the left lower quadrant of the abdomen and observing if it causes pain in the right lower quadrant. The presence of pain in the right lower quadrant during palpation of the left lower quadrant can indicate appendicitis. This sign is not specific to pyelonephritis.
D. Costovertebral angle (CVA) on the back: The CVA is located on the back at the angle formed by the 12th rib and the spine. Percussion of the CVA is a common technique used to assess for kidney tenderness. In the case of acute pyelonephritis, infection and inflammation of the kidneys can cause tenderness and pain in the CVA area. Therefore, this area is assessed for pain related to kidney infections like pyelonephritis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Restrict calcium intake to one serving per day:
This statement is not accurate. Adequate calcium intake is essential for bone health. Calcium-rich foods are important for maintaining strong bones and are not directly related to gout or uric acid kidney stones. It's crucial to differentiate between dietary recommendations for different health conditions.
B. Take 3,000 mg of vitamin C daily:
High doses of vitamin C can increase urinary oxalate and uric acid levels, which might contribute to the formation of kidney stones. It is generally not recommended for individuals with a history of uric acid kidney stones.
C. The nurse should instruct the client to limit foods high in purines.
Dietary changes are important in managing gout and preventing uric acid kidney stones. Purines are natural substances found in many foods, especially animal products, and purine-rich foods can contribute to increased uric acid levels, leading to gout attacks and kidney stones.
D. Eat 12 oz of animal protein daily:
Consuming excessive amounts of animal protein, particularly red meat, can lead to higher purine intake, which is not advisable for individuals prone to gout and uric acid kidney stones. High animal protein intake can increase uric acid production and may exacerbate these conditions. Moderation in protein intake, especially from animal sources, is recommended.
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