When assessing a client's mouth, which finding requires immediate follow-up by the nurse?
White, curd-like lesions.
Gingival inflammation.
Buccal mucosa ulceration.
Fruity odor of the breath.
The Correct Answer is D
A. White, curd-like lesions: These are often indicative of oral candidiasis (thrush), a fungal infection that may require antifungal treatment. While it needs follow-up, it is not typically emergent unless the patient is immunocompromised.
B. Gingival inflammation: This suggests gingivitis or periodontal disease and warrants dental evaluation, but it does not pose an immediate systemic risk unless associated with infection or abscess.
C. Buccal mucosa ulceration: Ulcerations can result from trauma, infection, or systemic conditions. They require assessment and possibly treatment but do not usually demand urgent intervention unless severe or rapidly worsening.
D. Fruity odor of the breath: A fruity or sweet breath odor can be a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening complication of uncontrolled diabetes. It requires immediate medical attention due to the risk of severe metabolic imbalance and potential for rapid deterioration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Explain the tests to the wife so she can interpret them for her husband: While involving family members can be helpful in some situations, it is essential for the client to actively participate in sensory assessments. Having the wife interpret the tests may not give an accurate representation of the client’s sensory capabilities.
B. Assess the client's ability to follow directions before proceeding with the exam: Accurate sensory testing relies on the client's ability to understand and follow instructions, as well as to accurately report sensations. It is important to first evaluate whether the client can understand and follow instructions, as cognitive or memory issues may affect their ability to engage in the sensory exam. This step ensures that the assessment results are valid and reflective of the client’s true sensory function.
C. Defer this part of the exam because the results are likely to be invalid: While cognitive decline can impact the reliability of the exam, it is essential to assess the client's ability to participate and follow instructions before determining whether the sensory exam can be conducted properly. Deferring the exam without evaluation of comprehension is inappropriate.
D. Perform the tests because the client's mental status does not affect sensory status: While mental status may not directly affect the sensory pathways, the ability to follow directions and focus on the exam does influence the accuracy of the assessment. Proceeding without assessing the client's ability to participate could result in inaccurate findings.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Observe the scrotum for swelling: Scrotal swelling might indicate issues such as a hydrocele, varicocele, or hernia, but it is not directly linked to urinary difficulties like nocturia or trouble initiating urination. It’s not the most targeted assessment in this context.
B. Inspect the urethral meatus for discharge: Discharge can suggest infection, such as urethritis or sexually transmitted infections, but it’s not a common finding in cases of nocturia and hesitancy typically associated with prostate issues.
C. Question the client about related symptoms: Asking about related symptoms such as weak stream, dribbling, incomplete emptying, or urgency helps the nurse assess for conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This focused history provides critical insight into urinary function and guides further evaluation or referral.
D. Palpate the inguinal area for a bulge: This checks for inguinal hernias, which can cause groin discomfort but are not typically linked with urinary hesitancy or nocturia. It's a useful exam, but not the most relevant first step based on the symptoms presented.
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