The practical nurse (PN) is making a home visit to an older male adult who was recently diagnosed with Herpes zoster (shingles). The client reports the onset of severe burning pain along the right side of his trunk.
What action should the PN take?
Administer a prescribed PRN dose of analgesic.
Obtain an oxygen tank for home administration.
Give the next prescribed dose of antiviral medication.
Notify the nursing supervisor of the uncontrolled pain.
The Correct Answer is A
This is the best action for the PN to take because it provides immediate relief for the client's pain, which can be severe and debilitating in Herpes zoster. The PN should also assess the client's pain level, location, and characteristics and document the response to the medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B. Attach the drainage bag to the bed frame.
Choice A rationale:
Measuring the urinary output in the bag is a routine task but does not address the improper placement of the drainage bag. The immediate concern is to ensure the drainage bag is correctly positioned to prevent complications.
Choice B rationale:
Attaching the drainage bag to the bed frame is the correct action. The drainage bag should be kept below the level of the bladder and attached to a non-movable part of the bed to prevent backflow and reduce the risk of infection.
Choice C rationale:
Applying gloves and emptying the drainage bag is not the immediate priority. The drainage bag should not be allowed to overfill, but in this scenario, it is only half-full, so this action is not urgent.
Choice D rationale:
Removing the looped tubing from the bed is important to ensure proper drainage and prevent backflow, but it does not address the incorrect placement of the drainage bag, which is the primary concern in this situation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice C. Soft blanket.
Choice A rationale:
A heating pad should not be applied to the client's legs with a mottled appearance. A mottled appearance indicates poor circulation, and applying heat could potentially worsen the situation by dilating blood vessels and further reducing blood flow to the extremities.
Choice B rationale:
The body lotion is not appropriate in this situation. While it may help moisturize the skin, it will not address the underlying circulation issues causing the mottled appearance. Moreover, applying lotions to areas with compromised circulation can be harmful.
Choice C rationale:
The correct choice. A soft blanket can be applied to the client's legs with a mottled appearance to provide warmth and comfort. It is essential to keep the client comfortable during palliative care, and a soft blanket can help maintain a suitable temperature without causing harm.
Choice D rationale:
Moist clothes are not indicated in this situation. They may potentially worsen the mottled appearance by adding moisture to the skin, and it won't address the circulation issues causing the discoloration.
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