What is the symptom called when a male patient, diagnosed with an enlarged prostate (BPH/benign prostatic hyperplasia), reports not completely emptying his bladder when he voids?
Urinary retention
Urinary incontinence
Involuntary voiding
Urinary frequency
The Correct Answer is A
Urinary retention is the inability to completely empty the bladder. It is a common symptom of BPH, as the enlarged prostate can press on the urethra and obstruct the flow of urine. This can lead to several characteristic symptoms, including:
Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying: Patients often feel as though they haven't fully emptied their bladder, even after urinating.
Straining to urinate: It may take extra effort to initiate and maintain a urine stream.
Weak urine stream: The force of the urine stream may be noticeably reduced.
Intermittent urine stream: The flow of urine may start and stop repeatedly.
Post-void dribbling: Urine may continue to drip after urination has seemingly ended.
Urinary frequency: The need to urinate frequently, often at night (nocturia).
Urgency: A sudden, compelling need to urinate that may be difficult to postpone.
Bladder pain or discomfort: Pressure or pain in the lower abdomen, often associated with a full bladder. Pathophysiology:
Bladder outlet obstruction: The enlarged prostate physically compresses the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. This obstruction makes it difficult for urine to flow freely, leading to incomplete bladder emptying.
Detrusor muscle dysfunction: The detrusor muscle, which forms the bladder wall, may become weakened or overactive due to the constant strain of trying to empty against resistance. This can further impair bladder emptying.
Neurological factors: In some cases, nerve damage or dysfunction may contribute to urinary retention, particularly in men with diabetes or neurological conditions.
Additional insights:
Chronic urinary retention can result in serious complications, such as bladder stones, urinary tract infections, and kidney damage.
Acute urinary retention is a medical emergency that requires immediate catheterization to relieve the bladder and prevent further complications.
Treatment for urinary retention typically involves medications to relax the prostate and bladder muscles, as well as lifestyle modifications such as limiting fluid intake before bedtime. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to reduce the size of the prostate or widen the urethra.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While adequate supervision is essential for safe delegation, it's not the primary question the nurse should ask. The nurse must first determine if delegation is legally and organizationally permissible.
If the nurse practice act or facility policy prohibits delegation of medication administration to UAPs, no amount of supervision can override those regulations.
Ensuring compliance with legal and professional standards is paramount to protect patient safety and the nurse's license.
Choice B rationale:
The client's response and approval are important considerations, but they don't supersede legal and organizational guidelines. If delegation isn't permitted, the client's preferences cannot justify a violation of these standards. Obtaining client consent is a crucial aspect of ethical care, but it must align with established regulations.
Choice C rationale:
UAP training is crucial for safe delegation, but it's again not the primary question.
If delegation itself isn't allowed, the UAP's level of training becomes irrelevant.
It's essential to verify the UAP's competency only after confirming the legality and organizational acceptability of delegation.
Choice D rationale:
This is the primary question because it addresses the fundamental legality and appropriateness of delegation within the specific context of the nurse's practice and workplace.
Nurse practice acts outline the scope of nursing practice and define which tasks can be delegated to unlicensed personnel.
Healthcare facility policies further delineate delegation guidelines within the institution, ensuring consistency and adherence to best practices.
By consulting these regulations first, the nurse can make an informed decision that aligns with professional standards and protects patient safety.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While independence is a valuable quality for nurses, it's not the most essential quality for leadership. Effective leaders must be able to collaborate with others, delegate tasks, and build consensus. They must also be able to recognize when they need to seek help or guidance from others.
Choice B rationale:
Physical stamina is important for nurses, as they often work long hours and are on their feet for extended periods. However, it's not the most essential quality for leadership. Leaders need to be able to think clearly, make decisions under pressure, and motivate others, even when they are tired or stressed.
Choice C rationale:
Flexibility is essential for nursing leaders because the healthcare environment is constantly changing. Leaders must be able to adapt to new situations, challenges, and demands. They must also be able to adjust their leadership style to meet the needs of different individuals and teams.
Here are some examples of how flexibility is essential for nursing leaders:
Managing change: Leaders must be able to effectively manage change, such as new policies, procedures, or technologies. They need to be able to communicate changes clearly, provide support to staff, and ensure that changes are implemented smoothly.
Dealing with conflict: Leaders must be able to resolve conflicts effectively, whether between staff members, patients, or families. They need to be able to listen to different perspectives, identify common ground, and find solutions that meet the needs of all parties involved.
Adapting to different personalities: Leaders must be able to work with a variety of personalities and work styles. They need to be able to adjust their communication style, provide feedback, and motivate individuals in a way that is tailored to their needs.
Responding to crises: Leaders must be able to act quickly and decisively in crisis situations. They need to be able to assess the situation, make decisions, and take action to protect the safety of patients and staff.
Choice D rationale:
Vulnerability can be a valuable quality for leaders, as it can help to build trust and rapport with others. However, it's not the most essential quality for leadership. Leaders need to be able to balance vulnerability with strength and confidence.
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