The triage nurse in the emergency department is assessing a client who reports pain and swelling in the right lower leg. The client's pain became much worse last night and appeared along with fever, chills, and sweating. The client states, "I hit my leg on the car door 4 or 5 days ago, and the sore is getting bigger" The client has a history of diabetes mellitus type 2. Which condition should the nurse anticipate for this client?

Venous thromboembolism (VTE)

Cellulitis

Arterial insufficiency

Thrombocytopenia

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) - While VTE can cause leg pain and swelling, the presence of fever, chills, and localized trauma history in this scenario points more toward cellulitis.

B. Cellulitis
The client's symptoms, including pain, swelling, fever, chills, and sweating, are indicative of cellulitis, which is a bacterial skin infection. The history of trauma to the leg (hitting the leg on the car door) could have introduced bacteria into the skin, leading to the infection. The client's diabetes mellitus type 2 also increases the risk of developing skin infections due to impaired immune function and circulation. Cellulitis often presents with localized pain, swelling, warmth, redness, and systemic symptoms like fever and chills. Immediate medical evaluation and appropriate antibiotic treatment are necessary for cellulitis.

C. Arterial insufficiency - Arterial insufficiency typically presents with symptoms like intermittent claudication, rest pain, and non-healing wounds due to poor circulation. The symptoms described in the scenario are more consistent with an acute infection (cellulitis) rather than chronic arterial insufficiency.

D. Thrombocytopenia - Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by low platelet count and does not directly cause localized pain, swelling, and redness in the leg as described in the scenario.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Chronic pain - Chronic pain is a concern for the client, but addressing the underlying issue of ineffective tissue perfusion will help alleviate pain by promoting healing and reducing tissue damage.

B. Impaired skin integrity - Impaired skin integrity is a result of ineffective tissue perfusion. By addressing perfusion issues, skin integrity can be improved as tissues receive adequate oxygen and nutrients for healing.

C. Risk for injury - While clients with arterial insufficiency ulcers are at risk for injury, the immediate concern is addressing the ineffective tissue perfusion to prevent complications related to poor circulation, such as tissue necrosis and infection.

D. Ineffective tissue perfusion- Arterial insufficiency ulcers are caused by inadequate blood flow to the tissues. The priority issue for a client with an arterial insufficiency ulcer is ineffective tissue perfusion. Due to decreased blood flow, tissues do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to delayed wound healing, tissue damage, and potential complications. Interventions should focus on improving circulation, promoting vasodilation, and enhancing perfusion to facilitate wound healing and prevent further tissue damage.

A. Apply a moisture barrier ointment to the client's skin B. Check the client's skin every 8 hr for signs of breakdown C. Clean the client's skin and perineum with hot water after each episode of incontinence D. Request a prescription for the insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Apply a moisture barrier ointment to the client's skin
Applying a moisture barrier ointment creates a protective barrier on the skin, preventing prolonged exposure to moisture, which can lead to skin breakdown in individuals with urinary incontinence. Keeping the skin dry and protected is essential in preventing skin irritation and breakdown.

B. Check the client's skin every 8 hr for signs of breakdown - Skin should be assessed more frequently, ideally every 2-4 hours, especially in clients with urinary incontinence, to detect signs of breakdown early.

C. Clean the client's skin and perineum with hot water after each episode of incontinence - Hot water can be harsh on the skin and exacerbate irritation. It's recommended to use mild, warm water and gentle cleansing techniques. Harsh cleaning methods can damage the skin.

D. Request a prescription for the insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter - Indwelling urinary catheters pose an increased risk of infection and other complications. Catheters should only be used when absolutely necessary, and preventive measures should be taken to manage incontinence without catheterization whenever possible.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for a client who is diagnosed with an arterial insufficiency ulcer. The nurse should plan interventions to address which priority issue?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client who has urinary incontinence. Which of the following actions should the nurse implement to prevent the development of skin breakdown?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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A nurse is caring for an older adult client who is at risk for skin breakdown. Which of the following interventions should the nurse use to help maintain the integrity of the client's skin?