The practical nurse (PN) learns that a client who is receiving chemotherapy has developed stomatitis.
Which information should the PN obtain from the client during a focused assessment?
Urinary output.
Ability to swallow.
Frequency of bowel movements.
Blood pressure while standing.
The Correct Answer is B
Stomatitis refers to the inflammation of the mouth and oral mucosa, which can cause pain and difficulty swallowing. In the context of a client receiving chemotherapy, stomatitis is a common side effect that can occur due to the effects of chemotherapy on rapidly dividing cells, including those in the oral cavity. When a client develops stomatitis, it is important for the practical nurse (PN) to obtain information about the client's ability to swallow during a focused assessment. This is because stomatitis can significantly impact a client's ability to eat and drink comfortably, which can lead to dehydration and malnutrition. Assessing the client's ability to swallow helps determine the extent of the issue and guides appropriate interventions and support.
Let's briefly evaluate the other options:
a) Urinary output.
Urinary output is not directly related to stomatitis. Stomatitis primarily affects the oral cavity, and its impact on urinary output is minimal or nonexistent. While monitoring urinary output is important for assessing hydration status, it is not the priority in this situation.
c) Frequency of bowel movements.
The frequency of bowel movements is unrelated to stomatitis. Stomatitis primarily affects the mouth, and its presence does not directly influence bowel movements. Assessing bowel movements may be relevant for other concerns, but it is not specifically related to stomatitis.
d) Blood pressure while standing.
Blood pressure while standing, also known as orthostatic blood pressure, is not directly relevant to stomatitis. Stomatitis primarily affects the oral cavity and does not typically have a direct impact on blood pressure. Assessing blood pressure while standing may be appropriate for other health concerns, such as orthostatic hypotension, but it is not the priority in this situation.
In summary, when a client receiving chemotherapy develops stomatitis, the practical nurse should focus on assessing the client's ability to swallow as it directly relates to the impact of stomatitis on the client's nutrition and hydration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","F"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Urticaria is a skin condition characterized by the sudden appearance of raised, itchy, and red welts on the skin. It is an objective finding because it can be observed and assessed visually. The presence of urticaria may indicate an allergic reaction or another underlying condition.
Choice B rationale:
Hypertension is a subjective finding because it cannot be directly observed. It requires blood pressure measurement to confirm, making it a subjective parameter.
Choice C rationale:
Diaphoresis refers to excessive sweating, which can be observed and assessed visually. It is an objective finding and may be indicative of various conditions, including anxiety or fever.
Choice D rationale:
Nausea is a subjective symptom because it is a sensation that the client experiences and reports. It cannot be directly observed by the nurse, making it a subjective parameter.
Choice E rationale:
Anxiety is a subjective symptom, as it is a mental and emotional state experienced by the client. It cannot be directly observed, making it a subjective parameter.
Choice F rationale:
Edema is an objective finding because it can be visually assessed by the nurse. Edema is the accumulation of excess fluid in body tissues, and its presence or absence can be objectively determined.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Provide a safe and calm environment for the client during a panic attack. Creating a safe and calm environment is crucial during a panic attack. It can help the client feel more secure and reduce the intensity and duration of the panic attack.
Choice B rationale:
Use therapeutic communication skills to establish rapport and trust with the client. Therapeutic communication is essential for clients with panic disorder. It helps establish a trusting relationship between the nurse and the client, which is crucial for effective treatment and support.
Choice C rationale:
Educate the client about panic disorder and its treatment options. Educating the client about their condition and available treatment options empowers them to make informed decisions about their care. It also reduces anxiety and fear associated with the disorder.
Choice D rationale:
Encourage the client to participate in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a well-established and effective treatment for panic disorder. Encouraging the client to participate in CBT can help them develop coping strategies and manage their symptoms.
Choice E rationale:
Refer the client to self-help groups for peer support and education. Self-help groups can provide valuable peer support and education to individuals with panic disorder. Being part of such a group can reduce feelings of isolation and provide practical advice for managing the condition.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today