When educating a client on the use of an adjuvant medication, which statement best demonstrates the nurse’s understanding of this therapy?

Choice A reason: A licensed practical nurse is qualified to care for the feet of a client with diabetes is false because foot care for people with diabetes requires specialized training and skills that are beyond the scope of practice of a licensed practical nurse. A registered nurse or a podiatrist should provide foot care for people with diabetes, as they can assess, treat, and prevent foot problems such as ulcers, infections, or nerve damage.

Choice B reason: Onychomycosis is quickly eradicated with antifungal creams or powders is false because onychomycosis, or fungal nail infection, is a stubborn and persistent condition that can take months or years to clear. Antifungal creams or powders are usually not effective for onychomycosis, as they cannot penetrate the nail plate. Oral antifungal medication or laser therapy may be needed to treat onychomycosis.

Choice C reason: Maintaining oral hydration may reduce the incidence of xerosis is true because xerosis, or dry skin, is a common problem for older adults, as their skin produces less oil and moisture. Drinking enough fluids can help hydrate the skin and prevent dryness, itching, cracking, or infection. The recommended fluid intake for older adults is 2400 mL/day, according to the National Council on Aging.

Choice D reason: Ram’s-horn nail should be cut to give a smooth, rounded edge is false because ram’s-horn nail, or onychogryphosis, is a condition where the nail becomes thickened, curved, and distorted. Cutting the nail can be difficult and painful, and may cause bleeding or infection. A podiatrist should trim and file the nail, and treat any underlying causes of the condition.

Choice A reason: Demonstrating commitment to the special needs of the geriatric client by means of board-certification is the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications, as it shows that the nurse has met the standards of knowledge, skills, and practice in the field of gerontology. Board-certification also indicates that the nurse is dedicated to providing quality care and improving outcomes for the older adult population.

Choice B reason: Raising the level of professionalism for the geriatric facility is not the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications, as it is a secondary benefit that may result from having certified nurses on staff. Professionalism is not only determined by the credentials of the nurses, but also by their attitudes, behaviors, and values.

Choice C reason: Assuring the basic competency of the geriatric nurse is not the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications, as it is a minimum requirement that should be met by all nurses who work with older adults. Competency is not only measured by passing an exam, but also by demonstrating clinical judgment, ethical decision-making, and lifelong learning.

Choice D reason: Addressing the current shortage of specialized geriatric nurses is not the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications, as it is a challenge that cannot be solved by certifications alone. The shortage of geriatric nurses is influenced by many factors, such as the aging population, the lack of interest and incentives, and the high turnover and burnout rates.

Choice E reason: None of the above is not the correct answer, as there is one choice that is the primary purpose of geriatric nursing certifications.